The Australian Professional Leagues (APL) has today taken over the management of the Central Coast Mariners FC on an interim basis while a sales process is completed.
The operator of the Central Coast Mariners FC notified the APL of the forfeiture of the
club participation agreement (CPA), and with this, the APL has taken the proactive
action to terminate the CPA.
The APL has made this decision to ensure stability and continuity for the Club, its
players, staff, partners and fans, whilst in the middle of the 2025/26 season. For the
short term, the APL’s focus will be to ensure the ongoing obligations of the Club are
met and operations continue, whilst a sales process is run with interested parties.
APL Chair, Stephen Conroy said: “The APL Board is resolute in its commitment to fans
and stakeholders to protect the game’s best interests, and make decisive action to
ensure the ongoing growth, stability and integrity of the A-Leagues.”
“As custodians of the game, we believe it is the best course of proactive action – for
the short and long term interest of the Club – to terminate the current CPA under the
current ownership, and run an expedited and robust sale process to find a new and
stable long-term owner for the Mariners.”
“We believe in the value that Central Coast Mariners FC brings to the A-Leagues.
They’ve shown with the right investment and community engagement, they have a
vibrant fanbase and a proven ability to consistently compete for on field success.”
“We are confident that with the engaged local and international interest, we can find
the right buyer for the Mariners to take the Club forward and ensure their long term
success.”
The Club’s management has indicated they will work with the APL to assist the
transition and the forthcoming sale process. There will be no changes to the Central
Coast Mariners’ fixtures this weekend, when they face Macarthur FC at home in the
Isuzu UTE A-League Men, and against Perth Glory also at polytec Stadium in the Ninja
A-League Women.
