Clubs record collective 240k profit in 2012

League of Ireland clubs made a collective profit of €241,544 last season, audited accounts for the 19 clubs for 2012 have shown.

The figures were released on Friday as the 2013 season was officially launched at the Aviva Stadium. The accounts showed that 11 clubs made an operating profit and no club reported a loss of more than €40,000 after exceptional items were taken into consideration.

Prize-money for the 2013 season will be the same as last year. The winners of the Premier Division receiving €100,000. The prize-fund for the Premier Division is €241,500 with €74,000 being on offer for First Division clubs, while €25,000 is going for the EA SPORTS Cup.

Commenting on the 2012 figures, the Director of the Airtricity League Fran Gavin said: “This is a significant milestone for our clubs and represents a major turnaround in club finances since the FAI took over the League in 2007. Our clubs should be congratulated for the achievement however, we cannot be complacent.

“Collectively, we must continue to ensure prudence in the interests of supporters and the Airtricity League as a whole, ensuring that clubs develop sustainably with a focus on facilities, coaching and playing squads to continue the upward trend.”

Launching the 2013 season, the Chairman of the FAI’s National League Executive Committee, Eamonn Naughton said: “We look forward with eager anticipation to what is going to unfold between now and November and I wish all our clubs the very best for the coming season.”