Dundalk Fans Rally to Raise €100K Amid Financial Crisis to Pay Wages
Dundalk Fans and supporters have launched an urgent fundraising campaign aiming to raise €100,000 to help cover wages, as the club faces the threat of being unable to complete the League of Ireland season due to financial difficulties. The Lilywhites’ owner, Brian Ainscough, confirmed last night that the club is struggling after a failed bid to secure additional investment, leaving the immediate future uncertain.
With a mounting legacy debt and funding for the remainder of the season not guaranteed, Dundalk’s official supporters group, The 1903, has appealed to fans to step up. A GoFundMe campaign was launched this morning with a message calling for contributions:
“With the release of the statement from Brian Ainscough and the real concerns that we may not be able to raise the money to complete the 2024 season, we wanted to reach out to our supporters and give them the opportunity to donate to a financial fund that will be used to assist the club in these serious financial difficulties.”
The group emphasized the critical need for funds, stating that surplus money would be directed towards the long-term development of the club. “Now is the time for all of us to come together, it is time to step up. Our club is in serious trouble, your club needs you.”
Dundalk Fans quickly responded, as the race to reach the €100,000 target began.
Ainscough is actively exploring investment options to secure the club’s future, including the possibility of selling the club to ensure financial stability. “I am exploring all possibilities about the ownership of the club to ensure that happens… I remain fully positive that we can secure the injection of cash that we need,” he stated.
With one wage period already owed and just two months left in the campaign, the urgency is clear. Dundalk, currently sitting at the bottom of the Premier Division table, face a crucial away match against Waterford FC this Friday, followed by an away fixture against Sligo Rovers the next week. Their next home game is scheduled for September 24th against Bohemians.
Should Dundalk be unable to finish the season, it would have significant consequences on the Premier Division table, with their results likely being expunged. This would shake up the title race, potentially handing Derry City the lead over current table-toppers Shelbourne.
Despite the dire situation, fans, ownership, and the FAI remain hopeful that a solution can be found in the coming weeks to secure Dundalk’s future. However, without new investment, the long-term outlook remains uncertain for the club.