In a critical move to secure the future of Canberra United, Capital Football CEO Samantha Farrow has urged the A-Leagues to assist in finding a potential investor. A meeting with the new APL chief executive Steve Rosich is scheduled for Monday, where the club”s future will be a key topic.
Farrow highlighted that the ongoing A-League Women season would be the last managed by Capital Football, indicating a significant uncertainty for Canberra United post the 2025-26 season. The organization has indicated its inability to continue operating the team, having previously received financial support from the ACT government to cover operational costs.
The Australian Professional Leagues recently took over the management of the Central Coast Mariners, which raises questions about whether they might extend similar support to a women”s team like Canberra United. Farrow expressed that the APL”s proactive approach is essential for establishing a sustainable future for the club.
“We want the APL to do what professional leagues do best and that is to help secure long-term, sustainable investment for elite clubs,” Farrow stated. She emphasized that a secured, investor-led model is the only viable pathway for Canberra United moving forward.
The ACT government has previously provided substantial financial support, including an $800,000 bailout to ensure the club”s operations this season and into the next summer. However, the government”s sports minister Yvette Berry acknowledged the limitations of ongoing financial support, stating that the government cannot indefinitely prop up the club.
Berry remarked on the emotional toll the situation has taken, noting the exhausting process involved in managing United”s future. “Capital Football made it clear at the start of this season that they weren”t in a position to continue in this role,” she added, reaffirming the organization”s desire to focus on community sports.
As the search for a buyer intensifies, a crucial meeting in the coming weeks could determine not only Canberra United”s fate but also the long-anticipated establishment of a men”s team in the capital. The discussions between Farrow and Rosich will focus on exploring new ownership possibilities to ensure the viability of both teams.
With just eight regular season matches remaining before the finals, the urgency for a resolution is palpable. Canberra United”s future hangs in the balance as stakeholders seek a sustainable solution to maintain the presence of women”s football in the region.
