AFC Wimbledon Seek Minority Investors as Current Fan-Owned Model Proves Unsustainable in the EFL

AFC Wimbledon have confirmed they are in discussions with potential investors as the club’s existing fan-owned structure is no longer sustainable for competing in the English Football League.

The Dons announced operating losses of £600,000 and warned that finances are expected to become “very tight” by the end of the season. The board said that despite the continued support of fans and bond holders, the club’s current model is unable to support EFL competition at Plough Lane.

Supporter-founded and majority owned by the Dons Trust, the club has reduced its debt by £2m and repaid £1.4m of Plough Lane bonds. However, their playing budget ranks 23rd out of the 24 League One teams, leaving them at a financial disadvantage.

In a statement, the club said that rising playing budgets and increased losses across the divisions make it unlikely that stadium revenue alone will ever allow a League One or League Two side to break even.

The Cherry Red Records Stadium, opened in 2020, marked an emotional return to Plough Lane for Wimbledon supporters. Following promotion last season, the team have enjoyed a strong start to life in League One, earning 25 points from their first 15 matches and sitting just outside the play-offs on goal difference.

The club first announced in October that it would begin seeking investment. Since then, meetings have taken place with potential backers willing to purchase a minority stake and provide working capital to help the club reach financial stability and strengthen its playing budget.

AFC Wimbledon stressed that they aim to attract investors who align with the club’s values and their commitment to preserving fan ownership at the heart of the organisation.