National League South Club’s suspension extended with another fixture postponed

National League South club Ebbsfleet United’s suspension from the league has been extended by another match at least.

Concerns were raised about the club’s financial position and they had recently been subject to a winding up petition by HM Revenue and Customs [HMRC].

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The Fleet, who are managed by former Millwall, Leyton Orient and Gillingham player Josh Wright, were given a deadline 5pm on Tuesday, August 18 to provide satisfactory evidence that they can meet their financial obligations for the upcoming season.

After review from the National League’s Compliance and Licensing Committee on Wednesday, the suspension continues with another set for August 26.

As a result, Ebbsfleet will not be able to fulfil their fixture against AFC Totton on Saturday, having also not played their opening three fixtures against Slough Town, Folkestone Invicta and Chelmsford City have been postponed.

National League statement

A statement on Wednesday read: “The National League’s Compliance and Licensing Committee convened this morning to further consider compliance by Ebbsfleet United FC with National League rules and regulations, and the suspension of the club in particular.

“The meeting was to consider the club’s response. The Committee noted that debt to HMRC for PAYE arrears remained
outstanding and the winding up order was still in place.

“The Committee noted information provided to it around recent change in ownership of the club, and the financial position of the club, including the ability for the club under new ownership to meet the club’s financial obligations for the 2026/27 season as required under rules and regulations.

“Following careful consideration, the Committee has taken the decision under applicable regulations to continue the suspension of Ebbsfleet United FC, with a further review of the position to be undertaken by the Committee on Wednesday 26 August, with a deadline for provision of information of 5pm on
Tuesday 25 August.

“As a result of continuation of the suspension, the Club will not be able to fulfil its home fixture on Saturday 22 August against AFC Totton.

“The Club remains subject to an embargo.”

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Ebbsfleet statement 

Meanwhile, Ebbsfleet said on Wednesday: “The club has today at 16:26 received an update and response from the National League following today’s committee meeting.

“They have informed the club the submissions made yesterday do not satisfy the League committee’s requirements.

“They have requested more detail and clarification and extended the suspension for seven days.

“As a result, this Saturday’s originally scheduled fixture at home to AFC Totton has been postponed.”

Kent-based Ebbsfleet were founded in 1946, originally as Gravsend and Northfleet, being elected to the Southern League, which is the seventh tier of English football.

Having spent years across non-league divisions, the club changed its name to Ebbsfleet in 2007.

Ebbsfleet has never been in the EFL having been relegated from the National League in the 2024/25 season.