A-League Grand Final Decision Slammed By Fans
Backlash after rights sold to Sydney
A-League is facing criticism from fans and industry stakeholders after striking a deal with the Australian Professional Leagues to have the showpiece grand finals hosted in Sydney.
The A-League men, women and E-League deciders have been locked in to New South Wales in a break from tradition.
The highest ranked team won't earn the right to host the season ending match.
Reports show the NSW government has dished out an eight-figure total to land the Grand Final from 2023.
In a statement, the APL said the move was "designed to develop an engaging grand final experience" for fans.
"Football fans now get the best of both worlds," APL chief executive Danny Townsend said in the statement.
"They can now look forward to a showpiece grand final event in a set location, as well as watching A-Leagues and national team stars week-in, week-out at their local A-Leagues team.
"This is a unique opportunity to build a tradition for football fans.
"When you think about a cup final in England, you think about the trip to Wembley, and we want fans in Australia to look forward to the A-Leagues finals in the same way."
The decision has been met with widespread backlash from fans and players alike.
Melbourne Victory forward Maja Markovski called the move a "Big L (loss)" on Instagram.
A statement from The Red & Black Bloc said the ardent group of Western Sydney Wanderers fans were left in disgust by the call to secure the season decider in Sydney.
"This once again demonstrates the lack of fan consultation," the statement read.
"A home grand final is the reward for the effort throughout the season. Earning the right to host the final was our tradition.
"We urge APL to reverse this decision ASAP."
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