Premier League's viability in doubt as HKFA deadline looms
Lack of clubs applying for professional division is causing HKFA anxiety, with financial constraints cited for hesitation
The viability of the inaugural Hong Kong Premier League, due to be launched in September, is hanging in the balance, with several clubs reluctant to commit to the new format.
Prospective teams have been given until the end of this month to submit their applications to the Hong Kong Football Association for club licences.
FA officials are not sure they can secure the minimum eight teams needed to form the league. So far, only six teams are likely starters: Kitchee, South China, Eastern Salon, Sun Pegasus, Yuen Long and Yokohama FC.
Citizen were the first current top-tier team to opt out, announcing their decision after their final league match of the season against South China two weeks ago.
We only want teams in the Premier League that want to be in it and that are prepared to become more professional
Royal Southern said on Sunday they would not join the league, citing financial constraints.
It is believed Sunray Cave Sun Hei are also unlikely to apply, while BC Rangers have said they will field a team next season, but were not sure whether it would be in the top or second tier competition.