FAS yet to confirm new entrant into Singapore Premier League for 2024-25 season

The Singapore Premier League (SPL) is gearing up for its upcoming 2024-25 season, but the league will remain a nine-team competition for now as no new entrant has been accepted yet. The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) has yet to complete its assessment of the applicants who have expressed interest in joining the league, leaving the door open for potential changes in the future.

One club that had hoped to be the SPL’s 10th team is Tengah FC, which announced on their Facebook page that they had received “in-principle approval by FAS” to compete in the upcoming season. The club, formed in 2017, had a successful run in the Island Wide League and is backed by Louis Amalorpavanathan, a former player with a sustainable plan supported by local and foreign investors.

However, Tengah’s entry into the SPL is not yet guaranteed as they still need to provide proof of funds and meet AFC club licensing requirements, which include having their own stadium and youth set-up. The FAS may require financial guarantees from the club, especially since Tengah has stated that they will not take Tote Board subsidies that cover a significant portion of an SPL club’s budget.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding their entry, Tengah is pressing ahead with their plans, engaging with fans and seeking to build a platform for local talent in the SPL. The club has begun recruiting key positions, such as a general manager, head of human resources, and technical director, signaling their commitment to joining the league.

As discussions continue between Tengah and the FAS, it remains to be seen whether the club will ultimately make it into the SPL for the 2024-25 season. The potential addition of a new team could bring excitement and new energy to the league, providing opportunities for players and fans alike. Stay tuned for updates on the SPL’s roster for the upcoming season.