March 27 – The top tier Finnish Veikkausliiga is the latest league to join the World Leagues Association (WLA) which is rapidly increasing its global representation and stakeholder credentials.
Established in 1990, 12-club Veikkausliiga has become noted for its commitment to youth development and financial sustainability. It become the 48th member of the WLA.
Earlier this month Slovakia’s League Clubs Union (Unia Ligovych Klubov), which operates the Niké Liga was added to the WLA membership.
The agreement was formalized by Kaarlo Kankkunen, President of Veikkausliiga, Don Garber, vice-chair of the World Leagues Association and Commissioner of Major League Soccer, during the European Leagues general Assembly in Frankfurt two weeks ago.
Kaarlo Kankkunen (pictured left), president of Veikkausliiga, said: “National leagues are the foundation of football competitions, and it is crucial that we work together to ensure their sustainable growth and development.
“By joining the WLA, Veikkausliiga is committed to collaborating with leading leagues globally to enhance the professional game. In an increasingly complex football ecosystem, it is vital that e.g. the international competition calendar supports and enables the well-being of national leagues and their clubs.”
Veikkausliiga will actively participate in discussions on national football development and the governance of the game as well as participate in exchanges of knowledge and best practices.
“We are delighted to welcome Veikkausliiga to the World Leagues Association,” said Garber (pictured right). “Finland’s top league has shown remarkable dedication to structuring and strengthening professional football in Finland, and we look forward to working together to enhance the game both locally and globally.”
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