THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION of Ireland are inviting expressions of interest to join a new league set to get underway in August 2026.
The aim is to recruit 20 teams for a competition that the association says will provide “a direct connection between grassroots and professional football”.
The National League will comprise two divisions and the possibility of promotion and relegation to and from the League of Ireland.
The competition will be split into North and South divisions during the season, before climaxing with the playoffs, which will see North and South teams competing against each other.
The winners of the playoffs will be in line for promotion to the First Division.
In addition, this new format will see First Division teams face the prospect of relegation for the first time.
The FAI will launch the league in preparation for the shorter season in 2026 to align with the 2027 League of Ireland calendar.
The closing date for expressions of interest is 21 February.
The FAI will then review applications and meet with prospective teams about the possibility of joining.
“It’s a first step on the development of a pyramid for Irish football and we will be working closely with all provincial associations and all existing leagues who will form a core part of the other tiers,” the FAI’s Grassroots Director Ger McDermott added.
Been long overdue . Hopefully clubs get behind this . If they don’t they will be left behind . It’s time for football to move forward .
Why are they starting it in august and having a mini season?
It is a good idea in principle. I’m not sure if non-league clubs will be interested though as it will put extra financial burden on them.
@Joe O’Regan: I guess a dry run
Will we ever see an All Ireland League?
@Der Calnan: hope not
@patsfan1166: only thing that will save both leagues long term, and drive audiences (Grounds & TV). 2/3 of the best teams on the island are South of the border, and the gap between top of LOI & IL and bottom teams is usually massive. A two tier All Island League with twelve fully pro in the Prem (competing for decent prize money) and 18 semi pro teams split into North & South Divisions is the way forward..
Hahaha
Why would clubs be interested? Although it’s regionalised it would mean Cork clubs travelling to Limerick and Tipperary and vice versa. Expense would mount up
What would happen to the Munster senior league and the various leagues around the country