Dundalk FC notes the recent media reports published on Wednesday, 26 November, regarding comments made by Mr John Temple in relation to the ownership and contractual arrangements between himself and club owner, Chris Clinton.
Speaking on behalf of Dundalk FC, Executive Director Chris Clinton has confirmed that the signed agreement between both parties is being honoured and that significant agreed payments have been made in accordance with a timely schedule. Mr Clinton also noted that, as is standard in transactions of this nature, there are normal administrative and legal processes which require time to complete, and these could be processed as expected with cooperation. The club will not be commenting further on the details of what remains a private commercial matter.
“I understand that the events of the last 24 hours have caused frustration and concern,” Mr Clinton said. “As someone who cares deeply about this club, I don’t want off-field issues to overshadow the excellent work being done by our staff, players, and volunteers, or the excitement around our return to the Premier Division.
“My focus – and the focus of everyone at Oriel Park – is on delivering a new pitch, a stronger, better-structured club off the field, and a competitive team on it. I’m grateful for the backing we’ve had from our supporters and the Dundalk FC Supporters’ Trust, and I will work hard to earn and keep that trust in the months and years ahead.”
The Dundalk FC Supporters’ Trust has committed substantial funding to support the installation of the new pitch at Oriel Park which represents an example of the close working relationship between the various partners. This is a positive sign of the cooperation and transparency that now exists between the club’s ownership, the Management Board, the Dundalk FC Supporters’ Trust and the club’s fanbase.
The Management Board continues its dedicated work to ensure that all Football Association of Ireland club licensing requirements are being fully met. Preparations for the forthcoming 2026 League of Ireland season are progressing well, with a continued focus on strengthening operations and governance across the organisation, as well as supporting first team and the academy teams at the club, as outlined.
The transformation of Oriel Park has taken a major step forward, with work now underway on the removal of the existing surface and installation of a new pitch. Weather permitting, we remain optimistic that the new playing surface will be completed before Christmas. This is a long-term investment in the club’s future and a key part of modernising our facilities.
Partnering with the Dundalk FC Supporters’ Trust
The Dundalk FC Supporters’ Trust has committed to provide the full deposit required to draw down sports grant funding for the pitch. This support has freed up internal funds to be used in other critical areas of the club. The Trust was founded to support infrastructural projects like this, and their backing is a powerful example of what can be achieved when the club and supporters work in partnership.
Strengthening structures and sustainability
The newly constituted Management Board has already begun addressing the club’s financial position, including the 2024 loss. The clear objective is to move Dundalk FC towards a more sustainable footing, with a realistic path to improving results in 2025 and targeting breakeven in 2026. That work is ongoing and will form the basis for conversations with sponsors and partners over the coming months.
Manager and Backroom Team confirmed
Head Coach Ciarán Kilduff has agreed a new two-year contract, providing continuity and leadership as the club returns to the SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division in its centenary season. Assistant Manager Ken Kiernan and Strength & Conditioning Coach Ronan Murray have committed to continue in their roles for the 2026 season. Both played key parts in last year’s promotion and will be central to preparations for the step up in level.
First new signing announced
Dundalk FC is delighted to confirm the signing of defender Harvey Warren, following an impressive 2025 campaign with Bray Wanderers. Harvey represents the type of hungry, talented player we want at the club, and further additions will follow as we continue to build the squad.
More announcements upcoming
Season tickets for the 2026 campaign will go on sale imminently, as part of the club’s wider preparations for the new season. Further announcements regarding commercial partnerships, supporter initiatives, and club development plans will also follow in the coming weeks.
Dundalk FC remains fully committed to serving its supporters, partners, and the broader community of Dundalk with transparency, professionalism, and ambition.