A-League club Wellington Phoenix is weighing legal action after its exclusion from the inaugural OFC Professional League, which begins in January 2026. According to an official club statement, the Phoenix management is “immensely disappointed” with the decision and is exploring a judicial review of the licensing process.
General manager David Dome described the rejection as “nonsensical,” stressing that the club had met the minimum licensing requirements but was ranked below Auckland FC and Christchurch United, who secured two of the eight available spots. Dome questioned how the Phoenix, the only professional club in Oceania since 2007, could be overlooked.
The club highlighted its record of investment and infrastructure: a fully staffed professional academy with eight teams, a dedicated women’s pathway, and world-class training facilities. “We have invested more money into football in Oceania than any other private organisation,” Dome added.
The Phoenix stated it is awaiting further clarification from OFC regarding the scoring system used by the Independent Club Licensing Committee. The exclusion has sparked debate, given the Phoenix’s status as the largest professional football club in the region.
The inaugural OFC Professional League will feature eight preferred clubs from across Oceania, serving as the confederation’s direct qualifier to the FIFA Club World Cup 2029.
Why was Wellington Phoenix excluded from the OFC Professional League?
OFC has not disclosed full details, but the club’s application scored lower than those of Auckland FC and Christchurch United, despite meeting licensing requirements.
What legal steps could Wellington Phoenix take?
The club is considering a judicial review of the licensing process to challenge how the decision was reached.
Does this affect the Phoenix’s participation in the A-League?
No. The Phoenix will continue to compete in the A-League Men and Women, regardless of the OFC Professional League outcome.
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