Hamilton Academical has claimed it has finally paid the pension contributions owed after eight months of defaulting on payments to current and former staff. The club issued a statement saying its pensions are now up to date, following pressure from Lanarkshire Live Sport and a series of articles highlighting the breach of SPFL rules.
However, not everyone has received what they are owed. An ex-player who has been fighting for a full season of contributions dating back to July 2024 told Lanarkshire Live Sport: "Not had a penny yet." This suggests that the club's claim of being up to date may not cover all individuals.
Club Statement and Ongoing Issues
The club's statement read: "We have had significant and unimaginable challenges from day one, but the fact that we sit here now, playing back in Hamilton, with a competitive squad, strong off-field management, improved governance, taxes and pensions up to date, and an air of excitement around the club and local area, is a testament to the hard work of everybody at the football club."
It added: "We have been open, transparent and honest about our challenges with the SFA, SPFL and all other regulatory bodies, and we appreciate the understanding and support shown while we worked through the challenges we faced." The club acknowledged that it is not yet officially saved and that challenges remain.
Rival Clubs Demand SPFL Action
One rival club official, who had previously called the situation an 'absolute scandal', reacted to Hamilton's statement by questioning whether the SPFL would enforce their own rules. He said: "I've read their statement and I find it a bit ambiguous. There are a lot of words but it doesn't say very much, really. If they have paid their contributions, that's great, but what about all the months that have passed? A default is a default. So do the SPFL just get this wiped off and sweep it under the carpet?"
He added: "I find it incredible. You can't just say: 'We have told the SPFL, so everything is okay.' Something needs to be done. The club seem to think they have vindicated themselves by saying 'we told the SPFL'. That's fine, but clear everything first before you spend stupid money on players."
Breaches of SPFL Rules and Sanctions
Lanarkshire Live Sport published pension letters showing that Accies failed to pay contributions from November and December 2025 and January and February 2026, leading to reports to the Pensions Regulator. Despite numerous attempts, the SPFL refused to comment. The failure to pay staff breaches SPFL rules, which should carry sanctions, but the league has not taken action.
The club's new ownership, led by Rob Edwards since January 2026, initially claimed the wage bill was unsustainable. Yet the club has signed multiple players on two-year deals, with at least one player earning more than last season's highest earners. The club also stated it is seeking investment, saying: "We need local businesses and local people to come and support the club... We are in discussions with potential investors to help accelerate that growth."
