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FIFA World Cup 2026 poster‘It’s just magic’: Ali Williams ecstatic for Auckland FC’s future
Sport Nation • May 25th, 2026 1:37 pm
Auckland FC fans | Photo: Photosport
Auckland FC co-owner Ali Williams urges that with the passion for the team, it can only get better.
In just its second year, Auckland FC have truly harnessed the attention of football lovers, especially after winning Saturday’s A-League final against Sydney FC.
Co-owner Ali Williams told Sport Nation’s Scotty & Izzy on Monday, the fans who sold-out Go Media Stadium in just six minutes are magic, sparking an atmosphere like no other.
“We've got the best fans in the league and we're going to grow them and we are going to ultimately create New Zealand fans of all sports to be just the best fans in the world.
Auckland FC lift the A-League trophy as 2026 champions | Photo: Photosport
“I think the energy that the fans have created, the energy in the city, and more than anything just the fact that people are having fun.”
He laughed while mentioning how he told event staff to ’loosen up’ and let people have fun to which they did relax.
“Fun breeds more fun so that's the best part but trust me mate it's going to get bigger.
“Football fans are just unbelievable. They're so loyal, they're so passionate.”
He describes the crowd as having a special friendship and despite being strangers, everyone bonded over the Auckland team.
“These fans want to stay connected with the team and that's what we'll do. We always put our fans first.”
Auckland FC champions parade | Photo: Photosport
He also mentioned how some players hadn’t yet proved themselves last year, but they’ve quickly become household names across the nation.
And starting from just a vision, Williams said it's special to have achieved something so great in quick succession.
“You sort of take those times to just reflect and go how cool.”
Listen to the full interview below:
