Gateshead have expressed their “extreme disappointment” after being excluded from the National League play-offs.
The Heed have secured sixth position in the National League for a chance to compete for a place in the EFL, starting in a play-off with Solihull Moors this week.
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However, this match has now been canceled along with the EFL and National League due to an issue with their stadium lease.
The club currently play their matches at Gateshead International Stadium – an 11,800 capacity stadium owned by Gateshead Borough Council.
EFL rules state that clubs must have a minimum of 10 years of tenure to participate in their competitions, which Gateshead do not have.
Although they requested permission to gain promotion to the EFL as all other clubs are required to do, their application was rejected on these grounds.
As a result, their play-off clash with Solihull Moors – scheduled for just 48 hours on Tuesday evening – has been canceled, with Solihull now set to face Halifax Town on Wednesday.
Responding to the news, a statement said: “Gateshead Football Club is extremely disappointed to find itself in the position described in the EFL and National League statements.
“Rest assured, we will continue to challenge their decisions and work to ensure football matters are decided on the pitch.
“Our players and staff there remain 100% focused on the task at hand, and we would like to formally express our gratitude to the National League for supporting our challenge against the EFL.
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“Due to the legality of this matter, no further comment will be made by Gateshead FC until it is appropriate.”
Gateshead spent 10 years in the National League before being demoted to the National League North in 2019 due to financial irregularities.
Promoted back to the National League in 2022, the Heeds will now spend at least one more season outside the EFL, dealing a major blow to their ambitions.
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