The Football Association has confirmed that an independent tribunal has rejected an application from Hull City to change their playing name to Hull Tigers.
The tribunal came to the decision on Monday, stating that the club would instead be able to pursue a name change from next season.
Hull chairman Assem Allam made a formal request to change the club's name back in December 2013 before an FA Council dismissed the idea due to supporter unrest.
Allam's plans were met with widespread criticism from Hull's fans, though that did not stop the Egyptian-born businessman opening arbitration proceedings against the FA in an attempt to overrule their decision.
The tribunal set aside the FA Council's decision from last year because they claim that the outcome should not have only been influenced by the opinions of supporters, but they have now also rejected Hull's application for a name change in the short term.
"The tribunal has done so on the basis that prior to a decision being taken, a member of the committee that considered the club's application expressed a view to supporters of the club that a club's name should not be changed unless it is clearly demonstrated that the majority of its supporters want that to happen," read an official FA statement.
"The tribunal held that although a committee member is entitled to place great weight on the views of supporters, it should not be the only factor to be considered when exercising his or her discretion.
"The club remains able to pursue a playing name change for the season 2015-16. In the event that the club wishes to do so, the request will be considered by The FA Membership Committee in accordance with the relevant policy and then by The FA Council in accordance with FA Rule A3(l)."
Hull continue their fight for Premier League survival on Sunday when they welcome Chelsea to the KC Stadium.
Jack Prescott
