Wednesday bidder told club face 15-point penalty

League One relegation looming after financial setbacks

Sheffield Wednesday, which has been under administration since October 24, will begin the new season in League One with a 15-point deduction, according to a statement from the English Football League (EFL). The decision impacts the club’s preferred bidder, a group led by David Storch, following a failed takeover attempt earlier this year.

The EFL confirmed that the consortium, known as Arise Capital Partners, will now face the penalty despite their bid to secure the club’s future. Storch’s team argued that the situation is “unique” and deserves special consideration, but their proposal has not been accepted.

“We have now been informed that a 15-point penalty is set to be imposed at the start of next season. We fundamentally disagree with this decision,” said Storch. “We also requested the opportunity for this matter to be reviewed through independent arbitration — going as far as offering to cover all associated legal costs ourselves in the interest of transparency and fairness. That request has been denied.”

According to BBC Sport, the £20m bid from the American private equity firm represents only 6% of the value owed to unsecured creditors. Dejphon Chansiri, the club’s former owner, would likely benefit the most from this arrangement. This shortfall significantly undermines the bid’s ability to avoid the penalty.

Storch highlighted the need for urgent improvements at Hillsborough, stating that the club’s facilities are “inadequate” and require major investment. Despite the challenges, he remains committed to completing the takeover by May 1. “Sheffield Wednesday is worth saving,” he emphasized. “We believe in its supporters, its history, and its future.”

The group has pledged to rebuild the club from its infrastructure to its sporting core, but they claim the current penalty is unfair given the circumstances. “We are simply asking to be heard properly, for the circumstances to be fully considered, and for a decision that reflects the reality on the ground — not one that risks further harm to a club facing extraordinary challenges,” Storch added.

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