In February, FAS announced that it was resuming its search for clubs to join the SPL – with local and foreign clubs invited to apply.
Interested parties were asked to submit “comprehensive proposals for participation” in the SPL starting from the 2025/2026 season. Applicants had to submit their proposal by 6pm on Mar 14.
A similar exercise was also announced in December 2023.
However, no new club came on board despite the FAS receiving several applications and giving in-principle approval to one club to take part in the 2024/2025 season. CNA understands the club is Tengah Football Club.
“The shortlisted club entered into a due diligence process, which took longer than expected,” said FAS in April last year.
“Given the tight deadline prior to the commencement of the SPL in May 2024, the club has decided not to contest the 2024/25 season.”
The SPL – formerly the S League – was officially launched in 1996 with eight local teams.
There are nine clubs currently in the league: Albirex Niigata, Lion City Sailors, Tampines Rovers, Balestier Khalsa, Geylang International, Hougang United, Brunei DPMM, Tanjong Pagar United and the Young Lions.
