Canberra ownership deal opens path to integrated A-Leagues club

Australian Sports Group has taken ownership of Canberra United, ending uncertainty around the club’s future and creating a route for the Australian capital to enter the A-League Men in 2028/29.The Australian Professional Leagues confirmed the licence transfer from Capital Football after a competitive process. Financial terms were not disclosed, while the transaction remains subject to Football Australia’s standard regulatory checks.ASG group chief executive Theo Fotopoulos said: “We’re thrilled to be leading the next generation of professional football in Canberra, taking on the ownership of the Canberra United women’s team with a renewed focus on growth and investment, and progressing towards an integrated professional club with the introduction of an A-League men’s team in season 2028/29.”The acquisition secures Canberra United’s continued participation in the A-League Women after two years of uncertainty over the funding and ownership of the two-time champions.Capital Football had opted against continuing to finance the standalone women’s club, with the ACT Government providing increased support while the APL sought a new investor.ASG has received an exclusive option to introduce a Canberra-based A-League Men side from the 2028/29 season. Exercising the option would establish an integrated professional club operating men’s and women’s teams.The consortium is led by executives with experience across marketing, sport, entertainment and corporate operations. Its plans include investment in academy pathways, football infrastructure, commercial growth and stronger links with the ACT football community.APL chair Stephen Conroy said: “Following a competitive process, we’re excited to announce the Australian Sports Group as the new owner of Canberra United, securing the future of the women’s team and establishing a pathway to introduce a new A-League men’s team in Canberra.“This is an exciting next step for professional football in the ACT and highlights the growth opportunity for the A-Leagues and football in Canberra.”ASG also intends to work with the ACT and federal governments, Football Australia, Capital Football and local stakeholders on infrastructure and development priorities across the capital region.The ownership change gives the APL an opportunity to expand its footprint in a market with an established women’s team and a significant participation base, without requiring the immediate launch of a men’s operation.Management responsibilities are now transferring to ASG, with the APL and Capital Football providing support ahead of the 2026/27 season.Canberra United’s next campaign begins when the A-League Women season starts on October 16, with the fixture schedule due to be released in August.