FCL also expects a license without Alpstaeg’s signature

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The clubs had to apply for their license for the new season at midnight on Thursday. FC Luzern also submitted the extensive documents – but incomplete. The signature of stadium owner Bernhard Alpstaeg on the suitability of the FCL to play in the Swissporarena is missing. Alpstaeg spokesperson Sacha Wigdorovits says: “Mr Alpstaeg has not yet signed for the right to play for FC Luzern at the Swissporarena for the next season.”

The next level of escalation in the dispute between Alpstaeg and FCL. With what consequences? Is relegation imminent? Answers to the most pressing questions.

The reason for the dispute is Alpstaeg’s plan to fire the current board of directors. In response, the VR withdrew Alpstaeg’s shares (25 percent), on the grounds that Alpstaeg had illegally acquired them from ex-president Walter Stierli.

So far without results. FCL president Stefan Wolf says: “Not much came out. The fronts have hardened.” Alpstaeg spokesman Wigdorovits says his client wants to wait and see how the talks with the board of directors of FCL Holding go. Only then does he decide on the signature. It is said that another meeting has been arranged.

Because he sees himself in his right. But also because since his interview in the Sunday newspaper in the fall, he has been attacked with posters in the fan corner at almost every home game. In a similar style to how he himself discredited the FCL leadership at the time. In addition, the “Zämme more than 52” initiative was advertised in his stadium. And then – from Alpstaeg’s point of view – the theft of his 25 percent shareholding. In any case, the attacks on his person encourage Alpstaeg not to give up in the discussion, rather than to be conciliatory.

The FCL assumes that the signature is not mandatory. As a replacement, the lease agreement between FCL Holding AG and FCL Stadion AG (Alpstaeg), valid until 2029, was submitted as proof of an existing stadium. Alpstaeg’s side sees this differently and uses the signature as a means of pressure in the shareholder dispute. However, according to information from Blick, it is quite conceivable that the rental agreement is sufficient to grant the permit. After all, common sense has gained in importance in recent years when granting permits.

There is also uncertainty about this. According to Alpstaeg spokesman Wigdorovits until April 25. The FCL assumes March 8 – after that, according to President Wolf, the signature can no longer be submitted. With the earlier date, Wolf and Co. Alpine under pressure. But it is also clear that the league has an interest in as many clubs as possible getting their licenses in the first instance. And probably will still accept submission of documents later in April.

The license is granted by an independent licensing commission. On May 1, the clubs will be told whether they have received the license in the first instance. Negative decisions can be appealed until May 3 and the decision of the Appellate Body will be made on May 26. Any further appeals would be heard in court.

Yes, according to the club, only Alpstaeg’s signature is missing. Vice President Josef Bieri, who owns 48 percent of FCL shares, guarantees the CHF 5 million shortfall guarantee.

The FCL should look for an alternative stadium. Although an agreement with Alpstaeg is not foreseeable, according to President Wolf, the FCL has not yet considered such a plan B.

All parties have one thing in common: they want the FCL to continue playing in the Super League. Not licensed for the FCL? Hard to imagine, every loophole will be found. But this scenario is theoretically possible. The FCL would then have to at least be relegated to the Challenge League, but will much more likely be relegated to the amateur sector. “It would be a disaster for the club, for Central Switzerland and for all the big and small fans who are rooting for us.”

Every serious club is already tinkering behind the scenes with the selection for 2023/24. The FCL does the same. Wolf says the unclear future hasn’t been a drag on negotiations so far, but he can’t rule it out in the coming weeks and months.

Source : Blick