Crystal Palace may find themselves in a familiar situation as they consider a potential groundshare with AFC Wimbledon once again.
Longtime Crystal Palace supporters will remember that Wimbledon—prior to becoming AFC Wimbledon—played at Selhurst Park for over a decade, from 1991 to 2003. This arrangement, initially intended as a temporary solution, arose after the Taylor Report mandated that all top-flight clubs transition to all-seater stadiums, prompting Wimbledon to vacate Plough Lane for SE25. Now, over 20 years later, the question arises: could this partnership be revived?
The Case for Crystal Palace Hosting AFC Wimbledon
Sadly for The Dons, recent flooding in the area has severely impacted Plough Lane. AFC Wimbledon’s Carabao Cup match against Newcastle United had to be postponed due to the turf being rendered unplayable, resembling a golf course more than a football pitch. Reports indicate that the damage is extensive, including the emergence of a sinkhole.
Ivor Heller, the Vice President of AFC Wimbledon, has revealed to talkSPORT that repairs could cost as much as £1 million. Given the scale of the damage, a swift resolution appears unlikely, which may lead AFC Wimbledon to explore the possibility of revisiting their former groundshare arrangement with Crystal Palace.
With Selhurst Park only a 25-minute drive from Plough Lane, the geographical proximity makes this option feasible, even if no official announcements have been made yet.
A Gesture of Goodwill
While AFC Wimbledon might struggle to present a financially attractive proposition for Crystal Palace—given their League Two status and the costly repairs required—it would be a commendable gesture for Palace to assist their neighbors. Such an arrangement would allow Wimbledon to fulfill their fixtures without the risk of forfeiture.
Newcastle United has already demonstrated goodwill by offering to host the rescheduled Carabao Cup match at St James’ Park, even though they could have pursued a bye into the fourth round. It would be a commendable move for Palace chairman Steve Parish to reach out and offer support to AFC Wimbledon during this challenging time.
