Commercial break: Time for private investment in an independent LOI

In recent months the conversation around the League of Ireland clubs potentially breaking away from the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) to operate independently has gained traction.

This isn't an unusual idea; most European leagues are detached from their associations and have their own administrative structures to handle day-to-day operations and commercial activities.

As always, the central issue with an independent league is funding, and the need for a sustainable financial model that supports the league, its clubs, and academies.

Previously, I discussed potential revenue sources for the League of Ireland, emphasising the necessity of public funding for our academies.

However, a league operating independently of the FAI would likely need substantial private investment, in my opinion, most probably from the United States.

The FAI must come to terms with the fact that the league could perform better commercially if it were operating independently.

However, this does not mean the FAI should lose complete control.

The FAI would remain as the governing body for the league, however a new third party entity would be created as part of a potential re-launch.

READ EOIN DOYLE'S SERIES ON FUNDING OF FOOTBALL

Instead, they could lease the league to potential investors with protective clauses for the clubs and the league itself.

These clauses could include targets for revenue and penalties for failing to meet agreements that don't affiliate with our clubs' needs.

Embracing an independent model with strategic private investment could be the key to unlocking the league's full potential.

Putting a case together hinges on the FAI’s ability to sell the concept to potential investors and convince clubs of its benefits.

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