Wests Tigers owners buy equity stake in APIA Leichhardt FC

Former National Soccer League champions APIA Leichhardt have secured some high-powered support for their first campaign in Australia’s new national second tier, with the Holman Barnes Group – majority owners of the NRL’s Wests Tigers – taking an equity stake in the club.

APIA Leichhardt play in the NSW NPL and are already sponsored by Wests Ashfield, one of three clubs under the Holman Barnes banner, whose logo is on the front of their shirts.

APIA Leichhardt players celebrate one of their goals against Melbourne City last week. Credit: Getty Images

But the group’s involvement in soccer is stepping up significantly, with a co-branded team to be known as Wests APIA FC to enter the new Australian Championship competition, which is being launched by Football Australia in October.

It marks the first significant step outside of rugby league by Wests Ashfield, and ensures a strong financial base for APIA Leichhardt as they return to national competition for the first time since 1992.

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