Wigan Athletic’s ascent to the top flight has been a rapid one. In 1995 they were still in the fourth tier. They have not been able to build a strong support base. Despite having the cheapest tickets in the Barclays Premier League, their attendances are the second lowest, behind Blackpool. The town has a strong rugby league tradition and it’s possible that some football fans support Manchester clubs.
Wigan Athletic’s ascent to the top flight has been a rapid one. In 1995 they were still in the fourth tier. They have not been able to build a strong support base. Despite having the cheapest tickets in the Barclays Premier League, their attendances are the second lowest, behind Blackpool. The town has a strong rugby league tradition and it’s possible that some football fans support Manchester clubs.
Wigan is the ultimate benefactor club, dependent on the largesse of 74-year old owner David Whelan who made his money with JJB Sports. In the 17 years he has been in charge, it is estimated that he has pumped £100m into the club. Even with a family fortune estimated at £190m, owning a football club is an expensive hobby.
The club’s auditors Fairhurst have stated in the latest accounts that there is ‘material uncertainty which may cast significant doubt about the company’s ability to continue as a going concern.’ The club recorded a loss of £4m for the year ending 31 May 2010 and is forecasting a loss for the next two years Revenue fell by 7 per cent to £43m which is less than Manchester United’s commercial income.
Dave Whelan is seeking to secure the club’s future by reducing its debt burden. £48m of loans are being converted into equity from his family’s companies. Talks are ongoing with Barclays about the future of a £20m loan.
Wigan face a real risk of relegation. The loss of the lucrative stream of Barclays Premier League income would be a blow to them, even though they would receive two years of substantial parachute payments in the Championship.