Auckland FC gives red card to invader
Auckland FC has removed a social media post using footage of the pitch invader at last weekend’s Wellington Phoenix match at Eden Park, who was clad in the team’s unreleased shirt.
Chief executive Nick Becker said the post was taken down from Instagram following inquiries from Stuff as to whether it was appropriate to appear to be promoting a pitch invasion.
“We've removed the post, and we in no way support people who run on to the pitch.
“All we’re trying to say is we support the passion for football and the support that we;re going to get for our club.
“There;s nothing else to say on the matter. The post is now removed.”
Pressed on whether he was apologising or acknowledging it was wrong to have posted in it the first place, Becker said: “The intention was a bit of fun. Sport and entertainment is about having a bit of fun and bringing some joy and that’s what we intended to do. We didn’t intend to look like we were supporting the people involved.”
The pitch invader ran on to the field at Eden Park midway through the second half of the Phoenix’s 2-1 win over Sydney and was promptly removed by security.
That he was wearing Auckland FC’s unreleased home kit prompted suspicions of a marketing stunt orchestrated by the club, which Becker immediately denied, telling Stuff soon after it happened that he was “not impressed”.
The kit was distributed in small quantities at the launch of the club’s brand in downtown Auckland last Thursday.
Eden Park chief executive Nick Sautner confirmed the pitch invader had been trespassed from the venue for two years.
Australian Professional Leagues, who run the A-Leagues, has been contacted for comment.
Auckland FC is due to enter A-League Men next season and A-League Women from the 2025-26 season.