01 Jul FFA agree to cease control of A-League in landmark independence deal

Football Federation Australia has agreed in-principle to cease control of the A-league following a protracted negotiation process.

It means an independently run body will manage the A-League, W-League and youth league competitions from the 2019/2020 season.

Recommendations presented by the New Leagues Working Group (NLWG) were approved by the game’s major stakeholders prior to Sunday’s deadline.

The governance shake-up will also preserve the long-term future of the Wellington Phoenix with their A-League licence set to expire at the end of next season.

“The recommendations of the NLWG serve to align and unite Australian football’s interests like never before,” FFA chairman Chris Nikou said in a statement.

“Clubs would have greater control over the strategic and commercial direction of the leagues, in turn triggering significant new investment in the quality and marketing of all three Leagues.

“FFA would be able to focus its energies and resources on the National Teams, grassroots and the overall strategic direction of the game in concert with all of FFA’s members, including the Women’s Football Council, State and Territory Member Federations and Professional Footballers Australia.”

The deal is expected to be finalised by August 1.