The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) has approved a budget of 10 million New Zealand dollars, equivalent to over 600 million Vatu, to launch the OFC Professional League in 2026.

Expressions of interest are now open for clubs from OFC Member Associations (MAs) to apply for participation. Interested clubs must meet the criteria set by OFC and submit their applications before the deadline at the end of March 2025.

The league will feature eight clubs from eight OFC MAs, along with one invited club from a non-OFC nation, such as Australia. Discussions held this morning between OFC General Secretary Franck Castillo and OFC Professional League Manager Stuart Larman highlighted the ongoing developments regarding the league’s structure.

Castillo emphasized that OFC is collaborating with Football Australia as part of a broader effort to integrate top OFC players into the A-League. The league’s budget will cover key expenses, including player welfare, accommodation, transportation, referees, and stadium facilities. However, the invited club will be responsible for covering its own costs.

Each year, the OFC Professional League will operate with a budget of 10 million New Zealand dollars, ensuring the sustainability and growth of professional football in the Oceania region.