The future of two-time A-League Women champions Canberra United has been secured, ending two years of uncertainty. The Australian Professional Leagues (APL) announced on Friday that Australian Sports Group (ASG) has taken over the club’s licence from Capital Football. As part of the deal, ASG holds an exclusive option to introduce an A-League Men side in the Australian capital for the 2028/29 season.
New era for Canberra United
Theo Fotopoulos, ASG chief executive, said: “Canberra is home to a thriving football community – a huge participant and passionate supporter base who have made Canberra United one of the most strongly supported A-League Women teams for the past 18 years.”
“We’re thrilled to be leading the next generation of professional football in Canberra, taking on the ownership of the Canberra United women’s team with a renewed focus on growth and investment, and progressing towards an integrated professional club with the introduction of an A-League men’s team in season 2028/29.”
The only standalone women’s team in the A-Leagues, Canberra’s existence had been under threat after previous backers Capital Football opted against continuing to fund the club. The side was propped up by the ACT government for the past two years, and the prolonged search for a new owner drew fierce criticism from captain Michelle Heyman.
APL chair Stephen Conroy welcomed the development: “This is an exciting next step for professional football in the ACT and highlights the growth opportunity for the A-Leagues and football in Canberra. We’d like to acknowledge the Canberra football community and the ACT government for their strong and ongoing support of Canberra United.”
What does this mean for the future?
ASG’s takeover not only safeguards the women’s team but also paves the way for the capital’s long-awaited entry into the men’s competition. The exclusive option for a men’s licence in 2028/29 signals a major expansion of professional football in the region. With a unified club structure on the horizon, Canberra could become a powerhouse across both leagues.
Source: The Guardian