J
oey Lynch is a Melbourne-based sports journalist and AYA cancer advocate, primarily covering football for ESPN. He has reported on the Socceroos, Matildas, and A-Leagues for over a decade.
A group led by the Kaminski family's KAM Sports business has acquired a controlling stake in Western United and its parent company, WMG. The investment is valued at around AUD 100 million, aimed at addressing the club's financial woes. However, the construction of a new stadium faces further delays.
The Kaminskis' money comes from real estate, with patriarch Maciek being the founder of Talon Real Estate. Mikhail Kaminski, CEO of KAM Sports, stated that his family acquired "north of 65%" in WMG and plans to increase their stake. The deal requires approval from the APL, Football Australia, and the Foreign Investment Review Board before funds can be released.
The Kaminskis have a history of attempting to purchase various clubs, including Premier League side Everton and La Liga's Atlético Madrid. Their previous attempts were met with controversy, including allegations of missed payment deadlines and duplicity.
For United, the incoming capital comes at a critical time, as the ATO filed a winding-up order against WMG's property and footballing companies. FIFA also imposed a ban on United's men from registering new players due to a dispute with former player Aleksandar Prijović.
Mikhail Kaminski emphasized that resolving the financial issues is their top priority, stating that "before you can build, you need to have a solid foundation." The investment will focus on developing the Tarneit precinct and building a stadium. However, the chairman's previous commitment to having the stadium ready for the 2026-27 season may not be realistic.
"We understand how construction works," Kaminski said. "There's just no way to build a safe, good stadium that's going to stand for a long time in that short a period." The family aims to work with the council and regulatory bodies to determine a more realistic timeline for the project's completion.
