The Football Association today reacted to the decision of the Independent Commission appointed, at the request of the Football League, to decide on Wimbledon FC’s request to move to Milton Keynes.
The Commission, and therefore the Football League, have decided that in light of what they call exceptional circumstances surrounding Wimbledon Football Club, the Club should be given approval to relocate to Milton Keynes.
The Commission reached its conclusions despite evidence presented by The Football Association opposing such moves in principle. The Football Association’s concerns are based on the following principles:
The Commission was comprised of three individuals including legal expertise and direct experience of the game above and below the Football League.
The Commission has made it clear that their decision is based on exceptional circumstances particular to Wimbledon Football Club. They see Wimbledon FC as a one-off. This is not the beginning of a franchise system.
The Football Association is greatly concerned that this decision should not in any way be seen as a precedent. The view of The Football Association is that for clubs to move is not in the best interests of the game. However, this is binding on everyone under the Football League rules – there is no appeal.
The Football Association will have to look at the detailed decision with the Football League and others to ensure that this truly is a one-off.
This will be no comfort at all to the fans and supporters of Wimbledon FC. The F.A.’s submissions and those of supporter groups had many similarities and The F.A. shares their disappointment. Looking to the future, The Football Association sees it as vital for the game to stop these circumstances ever happening again.
For further information please contact:
The Football Association
T: +44 20 7402 7151
F: +44 20 7745 4546
E: info@the-fa.org
W: www.the-fa.org