Treaty United and Limerick FC remain at odds over club's naming rights
THERE is widespread confusion among soccer fans within the county this morning as both clubs release conflicting statements
BOTH Treaty United and Limerick FC have released conflicting statements this morning as the the proposed unification of the clubs to the title Limerick FC continues to have its teething problems.
Treaty United, who first announced their intention to unite both parties in June of this year, released a statement early Monday morning, detailing their ‘delight’ in the in adopting the Limerick FC name in 2027, a statement Limerick FC have denied.
The ‘Super Blues’ statement read:
“Treaty United FC is delighted to confirm that all necessary formalities and approvals have now been completed in relation to the agreement announced in June to acquire the intellectual property associated with Limerick FC and adopt the historic Limerick FC name from the beginning of the 2027 season.
“The completion of the agreement marks an important milestone for football in Limerick and the Mid-West and clears the way for the club to move forward with the transition announced earlier this year.
“The agreement brings together the heritage and identity of Limerick FC with the League of Ireland platform, structures and ambitions established by Treaty United, creating the opportunity to unite players, supporters, partners, sponsors and the wider football community behind a single senior club and a shared vision for the future.
“For generations, the Limerick FC name has represented the city in Irish football and carries with it a proud history, tradition and deep connection with supporters. As the club prepares for the return of that identity, our responsibility is not simply to preserve that history, but to build upon it.
“The club would like to recognise and thank Pat O’Sullivan for his significant contribution to football in Limerick over many years and, in particular, for his willingness to transfer the Limerick FC identity as part of a shared vision for a more united future for the game in the city and region. We greatly appreciate the trust Pat has placed in Treaty United to carry that identity and its proud history forward.
Ian McMahon, Managing Director of Treaty United FC, commented: “This is about much more than a name. It is about bringing football in Limerick together and building something that can represent the city and the wider Mid-West with pride for generations to come. We understand what the Limerick FC name means to people and the responsibility that comes with becoming custodians of that history and heritage. Our ambition is to honour that past by creating a strong, sustainable and successful future.
“I would also like to personally thank John Moran, Mayor of Limerick, for his support and assistance throughout this process. John has been extremely helpful in bringing this together and has shared our belief in the positive impact this can have for Limerick.”
Limerick FC have, in response, released a statement of their own following the Treaty United announcement:
“The statement issued today is not true,” it said.
“The ownership of Limerick FC, its name and intellectual property is currently the subject of an internal ownership issue.
“Our position is clear: any purported deal entered into a third party concerning the Limerick FC name or intellectual property while the dispute remains unresolved is invalid.
“The FAI, Tricor and Treaty United have been fully aware of this dispute for the past 12 months.
“Any unauthorised attempt to use the Limerick FC name, crest or intellectual property will result in an application to the High Court for an injunction.”