Malta Premier League approves reform to reward clubs that bring largest number of fans at stadia

The Malta Premier League clubs have approved a reform of the gate revenue distribution system to reward clubs that attract the largest number of supporters.

Under the new system, the clubs that attract the most fans will be allowed to retain the gate revenue generated by their own supporters.

Times of Malta can also confirm that clubs agreed to abolish complimentary VIP tickets.

As of this season, no complimentary cards will be issued and all season and VIP cards will be subject to payment. At the same time, an element of solidarity among all clubs will be retained, ensuring that the new system balances merit with collective support.

A spokesman for the Malta Premier League said this reform is another significant milestone for the league.

“This reform represents another significant milestone for the league, as it modernises a mechanism that had remained largely unchanged for decades,” he said.

“The new model is expected to encourage clubs to place greater emphasis on fan engagement, reduce the culture of complimentary access, and actively work towards increasing attendances and matchday revenues.

“The initiative was spearheaded by Dr Joseph Muscat and Alan Abela, who consistently advocated in favour of these reforms and worked closely with the clubs to build the consensus required for their implementation.

“Their efforts were driven by the belief that a more sustainable and merit-based gate revenue model would ultimately strengthen the league and incentivise clubs to invest further in growing their supporter base.”

Valletta FC were one of the clubs that had been calling for a reform of the system for several months and they issued a statement to welcome the decision.

“Valletta FC welcomes yesterday’s decision by the Malta Premier League to approve a new matchday revenue framework that is fairer, more sustainable and better aligned with the long-term interests of Maltese football,” the Premier League club said in a statement.

“For too long, the existing system failed to recognise and reward the efforts of clubs that invest in their supporters, promote their matches, and succeed in attracting people to our stadiums. It created a situation where the very clubs driving attendances and generating the largest share of matchday income were effectively penalised for doing so.”

Claudio Grech, president of Valletta FC, said that “the reform approved today restores a fundamental principle: clubs that work hard to bring supporters through the turnstiles should be incentivised, not disadvantaged. It ensures that revenues are distributed in a manner that better reflects contribution, promotes accountability and encourages every club to invest in growing its fanbase and improving the matchday experience.

“This is not a victory for Valletta FC alone. It is a victory for common sense and for the future sustainability of our game.”

Change in format

During the meeting, the clubs also approved a change in the Premier League format.

The change concerns the composition of the Final Four play-offs.

If a team place first during the Opening Round and then finishes second in the Closing Round, or vice-versa, they shall automatically qualify for the Championship Play-off final.

In the context of the past season, Floriana, who finished second in the Opening Round and then topped the Closing Round, would move straight to the Finalissima.

Their opponents in the final will then be decided by a play-off between Ħamrun Spartans and Marsaxlokk.