Hoping for 2nd instance

Austria Salzburg now goes all out

Will Austrian play in the 2nd division next season?

(Bild: Andreas Tröster)

The day of decision had come for Austria Salzburg on Monday. Will the Violets lodge a protest against the refusal to grant a match license in the first instance or not? After a meeting that lasted more than five hours, it was clear: Austria is holding on to its big dream and has submitted documents once again. 

Once again, Austria Salzburg went toe-to-toe!

At 4.30 pm, the board around chairman David Rettenbacher met at the home stadium in Maxglan. Only after more than five hours did the result of this meeting become official: Austria is lodging a protest against the decision of Senate 5 of the Bundesliga in the first instance. 

Austria's chairman David Rettenbacher.

(Bild: Andreas Tröster)

"Without financial risk"
The Purple & White, who are moving ever closer to the title in the Western League as leaders and six points ahead of their closest rivals, are therefore hoping for an award in the second instance. "We have submitted an appeal, want to try and see how the decision is made in the second instance," the board was quoted as saying in a press release.

Until recently, financing was the biggest and decisive issue. The issue has not yet been resolved. "The hoped-for major sponsorship did not materialize, but many of our strong partners will extend their support," says Chairman David Rettenbacher. "That gives us the opportunity to take a chance on promotion without any financial risk." 

Now it's the Bundesliga's turn. By April 29 at the latest, it will be clear whether Austria will receive a license for the 2nd division or not. Then there would still be the option of appealing to the Permanent Neutral Court of Arbitration. Chairman David Rettenbacher is not ruling out this step. "We will try as long as we can! We owe it to the members, the team and everyone at the club."