A-League expansion top of FFA's agenda for 2018

Football Federation Australia have targeted the 2019-20 season as the start date for two new A-League clubs and will take a "fresh approach" in marketing the competition next season.

David Gallop

Chief Executive of Football Federation Australia David Gallop Source: AFP

In response to lower attendances and television audiences for the A-League, the FFA said A-League expansion as well as expanding of the FFA congress are top of the agenda for 2018. 

A decision will be made later in the year about which clubs are chosen as part of an expanded league, with numerous bids having already been made.
With average attendances down 15% it is seen by many analysts as crucial to expand the competition, which has had a mixed history with expansion clubs. 

After a day-long strategy meeting in Sydney, FFA put the downward numbers as part of a "general trend in sport". 

"FFA’s directors have targeted the 2019-20 season as the start date for two new clubs," the governing body said in a press release. 

"More details about the formal process will be announced next month with the intention to have a decision later this year.

"The Board also agreed in principle to create a new corporate framework for the A-League/W-League which could give clubs more input over the running of the league and potentially provide new investment opportunities for existing and new clubs.

"The existing A-League/W-League clubs and FFA’s Member Federations will be invited to participate in discussions regarding the formation of the framework.

"In response to a general trend in sport to lower attendances and television audiences, which has been reflected in A-League metrics this season, FFA will collaborate with the A-League clubs and broadcasters Fox Sports and Network Ten on a fresh approach to marketing the league, in particular around the start of next season." 


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2 min read
Published 16 February 2018 2:24pm
Updated 16 February 2018 2:29pm
Source: SBS The World Game

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