Western United Loses Licence Amid Financial Crisis

Western United, the 2022 A-League champions, have been stripped of their A-League licence by Football Australia due to financial instability, unpaid debts to players and staff, and a FIFA ban on registering new players following a dispute with a former player. The decision, made by an independent licensing board, is effective immediately and leaves the Melbourne-based club facing possible collapse. Western United has up to eight days to appeal, while a proposed takeover by American investors KAM Sports remains unresolved. Football Australia stated the move was necessary to uphold the integrity, stability, and fairness of the competition, and confirmed that all other clubs have had their licences reconfirmed. The decision has caused major concern throughout the league. Western United has expressed disappointment and signaled its intent to appeal.