The Wellington Phoenix have expressed deep disappointment after being overlooked for a place in the inaugural OFC Professional League, which kicks off in 2026.
The Phoenix confirmed on Friday that while their submission met the minimum licensing requirements, it received a lower score than successful bids from Auckland FC and Christchurch United. The decision has left the club frustrated, with general manager David Dome describing it as “nonsensical.”
“How the Phoenix, as the only professional club in Oceania for over 15 years, could not be included in the first OFC Pro League is nonsensical,” Dome said.
He highlighted the Phoenix’s long-standing role in developing the game regionally, pointing to the club’s fully staffed eight-team academy, professional pathway for women’s footballers, world-class facilities, and significant private investment in Oceania football.
“The Phoenix have fought for football in Oceania since 2007,” Dome added. “We are considering a judicial review of the process and how the licensing decision has been made.”
The club said it will not be making further comment at this stage.
