Media release from FFA: http://www.footballaustralia.com.au/article/ffa-chairmans-statement-on-future-of-hyundai-a-league/vu8mjj1f8u1k1uvs67fr9drfk
The
Chairman of FFA, Mr Frank Lowy AC, said today he felt compelled to issue the
following statement given the ill-informed and inaccurate statements about the
future of the Hyundai A-League being made by various parties.
Mr
Lowy said:
“In
April this year, I attended a meeting of Hyundai A-League Chairmen and
explained to them the long-term strategy regarding Wellington Phoenix.
“Since
that time I have not heard a peep from anybody except for ongoing discussions
with Phoenix.
“Earlier
this week I had a telephone conversation with Sydney FC Chairman Scott Barlow
and advised him that no decision has been made about replacing Phoenix should
that club no longer be part of the A-League.
“I
explained to him that it was obvious that if Phoenix was to leave FFA would
need to replace that team with another to maintain the 10-club A-League which
we are required to do under our broadcast agreement. In other words, it would
not be an extension of the A-League, but a continuation of the 10-club competition.
“As
is stands, Phoenix has four years to demonstrate that they are an asset to the
competition and not a liability instead of simply asking for a 10-year
extension to their licence.
“Ultimately,
if Phoenix is not part of the A-League then FFA is obliged to explore options
to maintain a 10-club competition.
“Clearly,
a new team in south Sydney is one of those options. Discussions have also taken
place about the potential for a new team in Wollongong. Even a new team in
Victoria, Canberra or Queensland can’t be completely ruled out at this stage.
“I
advised Scott that any future decision will be based on facts and figures and
not emotion and asked him to provide FFA with a carefully considered submission
about his club’s position. I also advised him that that FFA would consult with
his club, or any other club, affected by any future proposals.
“This
is why there is no point in conducting an uninformed public debate, which
simply creates confusion and unnecessary anxiety. I explained this to Scott directly
which is why I am disappointed he has chosen to make an emotive public issue
about it at this stage.
“And
my advice to Graham Arnold is to focus on making Sydney FC a champion team
instead of entering a debate he knows nothing about.
“When
all the facts are known FFA will make a decision based on rational judgments
and consultation with the clubs affected about what is good for the game.
“Meanwhile,
Sydney FC should prepare its factual submission and Phoenix should concentrate
on the task ahead.”
-ends-
"Phoenix till they lose"
