back by its money problems and had potential to achieve even more, Astra had a great campaign, finishing in third place and losing only one game at home all season. Struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic, relegation and dissolvement (2020–2022) Due to the club's growing financial problems, Astra's goal shifted from progressing to European competitions towards the club's stay in top flight in the wake of the new season. The pandemic left a stain on Astra's already poor financial state, falling behind with the player wages. Furthermore, the club was risking relegation on doping charges, noting that three of Astra's key players, Ioniță, Seto, and Fatai, were under investigation for using illegal methods of vitaminization; the three players were suspended. Additionally, in February 2021, owner Ioan Niculae was sentenced to 5 years in prison for money laundering. At the end of the 2020-21 Liga I season, bereft of their best players and struggling due to financial pressures, Astra Giurgiu relegated, after a poor performance in the play-out, returning to the second division of Romanian football after 12 years. They also reached, but subsequently lost the 2020–21 Cupa României final, losing 3–2 to CSU Craiova on extra time. On 18 October 2022, Astra Giurgiu requested withdrawal from Liga III, and the following day, the club folded after 101 years of existence. Crest and colours Emblem The teams last crest was adopted in July 2009, following the team's promotion from Liga II. The design was based on a classical template, and was characterized by the same black and white stripes which could be found on the team's shirts. The numerous stars which adorn the crest have their origin in the club's name, with Astra (like Steaua) being a Romanian word which translates as "The Star". Kit Currently, Astra Giurgiu's primary colors were white and black, although the kit design also included red on many occasions, especially on away outfits. Grounds Astra played its home matches in Giurgiu at the Marin Anastasovici Stadium, which had a current capacity of approximately 8,500 spectators. With the club having moved here since September 2012, the former Astra Stadium in Ploiești now acts as a training ground. Support Rivalries After Astra's first promotion to the Divizia A in the summer of 1998, its fans engaged in a grudge with their cross-town rivals Petrolul Ploiești. Often, the matches between Astra and Petrolul ended with clashes between the supporters. Most