English football is rich in historic rivalries, but few have such a particular origin as the one between AFC Wimbledon and Milton Keynes Dons. More than just a sporting clash, this rivalry embodies a fight for identity and the values of football. Since the controversial founding of Milton Keynes Dons, an irreparable divide has formed between these two clubs, symbolizing far more than just a local dispute.
The Genesis: The Break That Changed Everything
It all began in 2002, when Wimbledon FC, a historic London club in financial trouble, decided to relocate to Milton Keynes, a new city located nearly 90 kilometers north of its home base. This decision, approved by the Football Association, was seen by many supporters as a betrayal, erasing over a century of football in Wimbledon. The controversial move sparked a wave of protest, and in response, supporters created AFC Wimbledon, a club owned and run by its fans, starting from the very bottom, in the ninth division of English football.
Back to the Roots: A Club Run by Its Supporters
One of the most unique aspects of AFC Wimbledon is its ownership model. Entirely owned by its supporters, the club represents a democratic and community-driven vision of football, where every strategic decision is made in consultation with its members. This model, emblematic of resistance to commercial pressures, strengthens the pride of supporters who see their club as a bastion of genuine values in a sport increasingly dominated by money.
In 2020, AFC Wimbledon took a significant step forward in its project by purchasing a plot of land just 200 meters from Plough Lane, the club’s historic former stadium. This almost “homecoming” is a tremendous source of pride for supporters, who see this geographical proximity as a true rebirth for Wimbledon’s Dons.
Despite this community triumph, a debate divides supporters. While the club aspires to move up the divisions, some advocate opening part of the capital to external investors. The idea would be to adopt a model inspired by the German 49-51 system, where an investor could hold up to 49% of the club’s shares, while supporters would retain the majority with 51%. This model could bring additional financial resources to strengthen the team, but others strongly oppose it, fearing it could betray the club’s soul.
Milton Keynes Dons: A Club Searching for Identity
Meanwhile, Milton Keynes Dons has sought to carve out its own path and forge an identity distinct from Wimbledon. With a large modern 30,000-seat stadium and solid infrastructure, the club has attempted to distance itself from its controversial beginnings, but the shadow of the relocation continues to loom over it, making it arguably the least popular club among the 92 teams in the English Football League. Today, while the club has experienced highs and lows, including a spell in the second division in 2015-2016, it remains heavily marked by its contested origins.
The two clubs now find themselves in the same division, League Two, the fourth tier of English football. As of September 24, 2024, AFC Wimbledon holds an honorable 5th place in the standings, seeking promotion back to League One, while Milton Keynes Dons struggles near the bottom of the table, sitting in 19th place out of 24 teams. This context intensifies the rivalry between the two clubs, with each meeting becoming a battle for moral and sporting supremacy. The latest derby, on September 14, ended in a comprehensive victory for AFC Wimbledon at home.
An Uncertain but Passionate Future
Today, every encounter between AFC Wimbledon and Milton Keynes Dons is more than just a football match. It crystallizes questions of identity, values, and memory. As AFC Wimbledon continues to climb the ranks under the banner of its supporters, the club stands at a crossroads in its history. The question of investor involvement could play a decisive role in its future, but whatever happens, the fervor and passion of this rivalry will continue to write a unique chapter in English football. Football, beyond titles and trophies, is also about values. For Wimbledon supporters, their club represents the triumph of community over commercial interests. Inside the stadium, many flags and banners remind us of the special identity of this club so dear to its supporters.
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