Wigan Athletic has opened applications for its 2026/27 Fan Advisory Board, a major step in formalising supporter engagement at the League One club. The initiative seeks 12 fans to serve a two-year term until Summer 2028, providing a direct line to senior club officials on off-field issues.
This push for deeper fan engagement comes as the team looks to build unity on and off the pitch. They currently sit 24th in League One with 0 points from two games, having scored 2 goals but conceded 5. The next challenge is an away fixture against 23rd-placed AFC Wimbledon on 30 August, a crucial early-season encounter detailed on the club's fixtures page.
What is the Fan Advisory Board?
The Fan Advisory Board is a formal forum where supporters meet regularly with senior club representatives. It is designed to represent the views of the wider fanbase and encourage open, constructive dialogue. Topics for discussion will include matchday atmosphere, the overall supporter experience, engagement strategies, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion initiatives, and plans for growing the fanbase. The board is explicitly not a forum for discussing on-field matters like team selection, tactics, or player transfers.
Wigan Athletic has worked closely with the Football Supporters' Association to develop the board's structure and recruitment process. The FSA will facilitate an independent selection panel to ensure a fair appointment process, with representatives who have no affiliation to the club. A summary of each board meeting will be published to maintain transparency for all supporters.
Who can apply and what is expected?
Applications are open to all Wigan Athletic Season Ticket Holders aged 18 or over. The club actively welcomes applications from supporters of all backgrounds, experiences, and communities, with a stated hope for greater female representation to better reflect the diversity of the fanbase. Previous FAB members are welcome to re-apply.
Successful members will have clear responsibilities. They must represent the views of the wider supporter base, gathering feedback from fellow fans and recognised supporter groups. They are expected to attend up to four in-person meetings per season and support the Fan Engagement Team with occasional matchday assessments. Members must contribute positively, honestly, and constructively to discussions while upholding the values of Wigan Athletic and the Fan Advisory Board.
What is the application process?
The application process involves three distinct stages. Stage One requires candidates to complete an online form by 5pm on Friday, 11 September. The form asks for details about the applicant's connection to the club, their motivation for joining the FAB, and any relevant experience or skills they possess.
In Stage Two, the independent selection panel, including the FSA, will review all applications. They will assess candidates on their ability to represent the wider supporter base, communicate effectively, and contribute positively. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to interview and to prepare a short public profile for Stage Three.
The final board will consist of 12 members: five representatives from recognised supporter groups and seven independently elected supporters. This structure aims to balance organised fan voices with those of individual season ticket holders. Fans can track the club's ongoing projects and engagement work via the official stats hub.
How does this fit with the club's current situation?
Strengthening the bond with supporters is a priority for the club as it navigates the early part of the 2026/27 season. With the team six points behind league leaders Bradford City, fostering a strong, unified fan environment is seen as integral to long-term progress on all fronts. The Fan Advisory Board represents a sustained commitment to embedding the supporter voice within the club's decision-making processes on key off-field issues.
This formalised dialogue will continue throughout the season, with meeting agendas agreed in advance. For supporters keen to understand the full context of the season, including the current standings, the club provides regular updates. The opening of FAB applications marks a significant, structured effort to ensure the fanbase has a direct and influential role in shaping their matchday experience and the club's community footprint for years to come.
