Dundalk FC Owner Brian Ainscough: “There Will Be No Liquidation Today” as Hope for a Deal Grows
Dundalk FC’s future took a promising turn today, as owner Brian Ainscough reassured fans that the club would not fold by the anticipated 5pm deadline. Amid financial uncertainty and fears of liquidation, Ainscough confirmed that efforts to save the 14-time League of Ireland champions are still in motion.
Fans had been on edge after the club issued a concerning statement Sunday night, warning that the next 24 hours would be “a critical time” for Dundalk FC due to ongoing financial difficulties. With debts surpassing €1 million, the club’s survival has been in question, and many feared that without an imminent takeover, Dundalk could cease operations.
However, Ainscough, the Boston-based businessman who took over the club last December, remains optimistic. “There will be no liquidation today,” he assured supporters, adding that negotiations with potential buyers are ongoing.
When asked about the possibility of a deal being finalized, Ainscough remained cautious: “I’ve been close to deals before, and it hasn’t happened, so we’ll see how it goes. But I’m still fighting the fight to make sure there’s a club for everyone going forward.”
It is understood that at least two interested parties are in talks to rescue the Co. Louth side, one of which includes a local businessman with no prior involvement in the club. Ainscough’s comments have brought renewed hope that a solution can be found to keep Dundalk FC afloat.
If a takeover is secured, the club is likely to enter the Small Company Administrative Rescue Process (SCARP), a 45-day restructuring scheme designed for insolvent companies. This could result in debt restructuring and relegation to the First Division, but it would also offer a path to survival.
Dundalk FC, a storied club with five league titles, three FAI Cups, and two Europa League group stage appearances in the last decade, currently sits at the bottom of the Premier Division table. Fans and players alike are anxiously awaiting further developments, hoping that a deal can save their beloved club from an uncertain future.