The A-League will expand to a 10-team competition from next season, with Football Federation Australia today confirming the entry of two new teams.
Gold Coast United and North Queensland have been granted licenses for the 2009-10 season, although FFA chief executive Ben Buckley said final legal documentation had yet to be completed for the Townsville-based consortium's entry.
The FFA had originally hoped to increase the competition from eight teams for its fourth season this year, but opted to delay the expansion.
The FFA eventually ratified the introduction of two new teams at its board meeting yesterday.
Buckley made the announcement today at Skilled Park, the proposed home of the Gold Coast, who are backed by iron ore billionaire Clive Palmer.
"Expansion of the A-League is a critical issue to the continuing evolution and growth of football and this is a very exciting day for FFA, everyone involved in the A-League, Gold Coast United and North Queensland," said Buckley.
"The Gold Coast is a vitally important region for football.
"It is one of the fastest growing regions in the country with a population already over half a million and a strong level of participation and interest in the sport.
"We know that the people of the Gold Coast enjoy supporting local teams and I have no doubt Skilled Park will be one of the best home grounds in the country."
Townsville golf course magnate Don Matheson, who is behind the north Queensland franchise, told AAP yesterday it would take "two to three weeks" to complete a legal agreement with the FFA.
Buckley today added it was the only outstanding matter in NQ's bid.
"North Queensland has met all the commercial criteria we set for them last month, including local community and business support which has been terrific," Buckley said.
Buckley also confirmed the FFA was continuing discussions with a number of consortia to expand the A-League further in 2010-11, with 12-14 teams the ultimate long-term goal.
