Drogheda United Football Club have failed in their appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport over their participation in the Conference League this season.
The team from Louth had the opportunity to participate in the qualifying rounds, but will now not be allowed to compete because the Trivela Group, which owns part of the Danish club Silkeborg, cannot allow two competing teams in the same tournament.
Drogheda secured a European ticket with victory over Derry City in the FAI Cup final.
Because Silkeborg finished higher in their league, they have an advantage in Europe over Drogheda. The Irish team will not be able to replace the club from Louth.
In a statement, Drogheda said they were “heartbroken” by the verdict.
“It is with great sadness and disbelief that we have been defeated in our appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. We strongly disagree with this decision and had hoped that justice and common sense would prevail.
“After months of engagement, constructive dialogue, many hours of legal preparation and countless proposals based on previously reached agreements, we were unable to achieve success. Despite the sincere and active support of the football community, the decision was not in our favor. We are saddened by the outcome.
“We understand that this decision will cause bitterness and disappointment within our community. Not only because of the decision itself, but also because we recognise how much this has meant to everyone associated with Drogheda United.
“We know how hard this team fought for its place in European competition and we understand how transformative this opportunity would be, both financially and emotionally, for our players, staff and community.
“We disagree with this verdict. We believe it is unfair. Rules should support opportunities, not limit them. Especially for community-oriented clubs like ours, who strive to exceed their capabilities every day.
“We are, however, prepared to take responsibility. And we are very sorry. But despite our sadness, we are also inspired. We will not let this failure define us. Instead, we will use it as motivation. Our club has never received anything for nothing, and we have earned every inch with our tenacity, resilience and unity. And we will continue to do so.
“We will push for reform to ensure that no other community-focused club finds itself in a similar situation. All parties can do better. And we will do everything we can to make it happen. We will provide more information in the coming days.
“But for now we will focus on what we can control: the ongoing LOI campaign and our title defence in the FAI Cup (sic), which starts in July against Crumlin. We have a job to do both on and off the pitch. We are here. And we are not going anywhere. We will continue to invest in all aspects of the club, including plans for a new stadium. We aim to be regular participants in European competitions.
“This club is on the rise. Our league is on the rise. And no single result is going to change that.”
Drogheda United face Shamrock Rovers in the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division on Monday evening.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
