Ex-coach of "Chemok" expresses regret over the club's dissolution.
Former Himki Coach Regrets Club's RPL License Denial
Sergei Yuran, the ex-Russian national football team striker and current coach, has expressed his disappointment over the Russian Football Union (RFU) not issuing a license for the Moscow region club, Himki, to compete in the Russian Premier League (RPL). In an interview with Legalbet, Yuran lamented the administrative staff, players, and academy would be affected by this decision, and that the disbanding of the academy would leave young players without a proper training ground.
Yuran observed that, in previous years, two teams from the Moscow region were in the top division of Russian football – Saturn Ramenskoye and Himki. With the lack of high-level teams remaining in the second most powerful region after Moscow, he urged the RFU to take the issue of controlling clubs vying for a spot in the Premier League more seriously to prevent similar incidents of teams shutting down in the future. Although Himki finished 12th in the RPL this season and secured a place in the top division, their failure to receive a license from the RFU commission means the team is discontinuing operations.
Earlier, there were concerns about potential cancellation of the Russia vs. Uruguay match.
Licensing issues in football often arise due to financial or infrastructural compliance problems. Clubs must adhere to specific criteria set by the governing body, which includes financial stability, adequate facilities, and proper youth development programs. Failure to meet these requirements can lead to a club being denied a license, potentially resulting in relegation or disbandment if the club cannot participate in the league.
The potential implications for Russian football could include decreased competition, financial instability, and a negative impact on community morale and support for the sport. Without specific details about the licensing issues Himki might have faced, it is challenging to delve into their exact circumstances. However, Russia's football landscape may feel the effects in terms of competition, finances, and overall fan engagement, as another high-level team is withdrawn.
Yuran suggested that the lack of high-level football teams in the Moscow region, such as Saturn Ramenskoye and previously Himki, could lead to a decrease in competition in Russian football, especially in European-leagues like the Premier-League. He further expressed concern that the discontinuation of Himki's operations due to licensing issues might negatively impact the finances, community morale, and overall support for sports in the region.