Maidstone United’s journey in the FA Cup has been truly remarkable, but co-owner Oliver Ash has sought to downplay the financial significance of their success, stating that it is “not life-changing” for the non-league club. Despite earning approximately £700,000 before tax from their FA Cup run, Ash believes that the windfall is substantial but not transformative for the club’s financial prospects.
The Stones, who compete in the National League South, are preparing to face Championship club Coventry City in the fifth round on Monday. Their remarkable achievement has seen them become the lowest-ranked team to reach the last 16 since Blyth Spartans accomplished the feat in 1977-78.
According to Ash, Maidstone United has earned £351,375 in prize money alone by winning seven matches to reach the fifth round. In addition to prize money, the club has also benefited from television revenue, sponsorship deals, and gate receipts. Should Maidstone prevail over Coventry, they would receive an additional £225,000 in prize money, given the significant disparity in club standings between the two teams.
The positive financial impact of Maidstone’s FA Cup run has reinvigorated the club and generated substantial excitement within the community. Ash reflected on the significance of the run, expressing, “We’ve created probably 20 years of buzz from this run. When a club like ours gets this far, it’s what the FA Cup really means these days. When you see all these fans having the time of their lives, you just want that to continue.”
Furthermore, Ash highlighted the club’s journey to stability and sustainability, emphasizing the importance of maintaining financial independence without relying on wealthy benefactors. He shared, “My dream is nothing more spectacular than wanting Maidstone United to be stable and sustainable. Up until last year, we’d had 10 years of making profits every year as a club. That builds the club for the future rather than relying on a sugar daddy owner chucking money in and then getting fed up and disappearing, leaving the club in peril.”
In conclusion, despite the impressive financial gains from their FA Cup run, Maidstone United’s co-owner Oliver Ash maintains a pragmatic outlook on the club’s financial future. The journey has undoubtedly brought valuable revenue and immense excitement, but the focus remains on building a stable and sustainable financial foundation for the club.
Source: BBC Sport