National Second Tier to Revolutionize Australian Soccer

Football Australia plans to launch a 16-team national second-tier competition in October 2025, marking a significant expansion in the domestic soccer landscape. However, the long-anticipated promotion-relegation system will not be part of the initial setup, despite calls from soccer enthusiasts.

Football Australia has unveiled plans for a 16-team national second-tier competition set to launch in October 2025. The new competition will aim to provide a national platform for teams, yet it notably excludes any mention of linking with the top-flight A-League through a promotion-relegation system.

In its recent statement, the governing body announced the addition of six new clubs from various regions, including Adelaide, Hobart, and southern Queensland, following the initial naming of eight teams nearly a year ago. A third recruitment phase will focus on representing under-represented states to complete the foundation clubs lineup.

Set to be an annual event, the second-tier competition will feature nine match-day rounds and culminate in a championship-deciding final in December. Despite the excitement, many soccer fans might feel let down due to the absence of a promotion-relegation system, which some believe could have driven greater interest in the sport.

(With inputs from agencies.)