Dundalk FC Saved from the Brink as Local Barrister John Temple Leads Takeover
Ardee News and Sport — Dundalk FC has been officially rescued from the verge of collapse following a completed takeover by local barrister John Temple. Temple’s consortium, which includes local investors, has taken control of the club in an effort to stabilize its future after a severe cashflow crisis threatened its existence.
Boston-based majority owner Brian Ainscough confirmed that the club’s survival was at risk earlier this week, but an agreement has been reached to transfer his 80% stake to Temple’s group, while the remaining 20% stays with the four minority shareholders.
Temple, a Dundalk native from Avenue Road, will lead the new ownership team that will underwrite player wages for the rest of the season. He expressed gratitude to the supporters and highlighted the importance of the club to the community. “Dundalk is a football town, and the club means everything to its staff, players, and fans,” he said.
Despite interest from other potential buyers, Temple’s group was the only one to proceed to final talks. A proud Dundalk fan, Temple aims to revitalize the club both on and off the pitch, with long-term plans to upgrade its facilities and position Dundalk FC as a key player in Irish football once again. The club confirmed the takeover with a tweet, playing Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds, signaling that “everything is going to be alright.”
While Jon Daly’s side has been struggling on the field, Temple emphasized that immediate focus will be on resolving off-field issues. With six games remaining, Dundalk is in a relegation battle but hopes the new ownership will bring stability and success.
The new board of directors will be announced in the coming weeks as Dundalk prepares for the final push of the season, starting with Saturday’s trip to Sligo Rovers.