Capital Football has confirmed there will be no relegation from the National Premier League senior and youth competitions in 2026, following the collapse of Gungahlin United. The decision was outlined in a letter from chief executive Samantha Farrow to clubs last week, citing the exceptional circumstances surrounding the club's shutdown.
Farrow stated that the move ensures stability and fairness for all clubs and players affected by Gungahlin United's closure. However, it means clubs aspiring to promotion to the NPL in 2027 must now wait until 2028, unless an existing NPL club withdraws or fails to meet criteria, with any changes at the discretion of the Capital Football board.
Capital Football has also delayed the introduction of new player expense agreements and player contracts until 2027. These regulations, originally set to take effect in 2026, require player expense agreements for those paid up to $150 per match and contracts for those paid $150 or more per match or over $5000 per season. The paperwork was originally due by November 30, 2024.
The postponement comes amid accusations of unpaid wages and broken agreements at Gungahlin United prior to its collapse. Capital Football's NPL review had proposed these measures instead of a salary cap, which was deemed too difficult to enforce.
Capital Football also flagged an imminent announcement as soon as Friday regarding final NPL licence decisions. Earlier, the governing body invited Canberra Juventus and Canberra White Eagles to join an expanded 11-team NPL men's competition for 2026. Yoogali Soccer Club, which was axed from first-grade men's competition, appealed to become the 12th team but was denied.
