The League of Ireland is back with a bang next week (6th February) as the new 2026 season was officially launched today at Whelan's in Dublin.
Challengers around the country will be hoping to take Shamrock Rovers’ crown in the SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division with last year’s runners-up Derry City having a busy winter transfer window, hoping that they can go one better in 2026.
Shelbourne and Bohemians both completed the top four last year, and along with other title hopefuls, they will be hoping for a run at the trophy in 2026.
With overall attendances rising 11% in 2025 for League of Ireland Clubs, 2026 is set to reach even more people with rising crowds alongside Virgin Media Television, Off the Ball, TG4 and LOITV as broadcast partners.
Shamrock Rovers host Dundalk live on Virgin Media Two next Friday, 6 February in the season opener before Bohemians clash with St. Patrick’s Athletic at the Aviva Stadium two days later also live on Virgin Media Two.
The Maldron Hotel, Galway also hosted a Q&A session with members from Galway United last Monday.
Galway United manager John Caulfield told Galway Bay FM's Mike Rafferty that they've a big year coming up.
Mike also chatted to Galway United's David Hurley about the league being just around the corner.
Galway United's first game is at home to Drogheda United next Friday. Kick-off at Eamonn Deacy Park is 7.45pm and we'll have LIVE coverage here on Galway Bay FM.
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The SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division kicks off on Saturday, 14 March with Athlone Town hoping to become the first team to win the Division three times in a row, while Shelbourne, Shamrock Rovers and Galway United amongst others look to gain the 2026 crown. (can we amend to say title instead of crown please).
In the race for promotion in the SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division, Cork City will have eyes on an immediate return after their relegation last season while Cobh Ramblers, Kerry, Wexford could be among the chasing pack.
LOITV will continue to play a big role in the League this year with over 550 live games broadcast through a range of subscriptions available to supporters with all profit from the service going directly back to the Clubs.
Head to www.loitv.ie to secure your pass now.
League of Ireland, Director, Mark Scanlon said: “The start of a new season is always special, and this year is no different. The growth of the league, the quality on the pitch, and the passion of our supporters continue to drive Irish football forward. We are excited to welcome fans back to grounds across the country and showcase the very best of the domestic game. After a brilliant 2025 where we saw two doubles won by Shamrock Rovers and Athlone Town, League of Ireland clubs historic achievements in UEFA Club Competitions and countless dramatic stories throughout the year, we’re really excited to see what 2026 has in store for us. These stories will be amplified even more now with Virgin Media Television, Off the Ball, TG4 and LOITV bringing the League all over the country every week. I’d like to wish all the teams the best of luck ahead of a huge year in the League of Ireland.”
Ashley Morrow, Head of Brand, Advertising & Sponsorship at SSE Airtricity said: “At SSE Airtricity, we’re excited to see the League of Ireland kick off again for another season - our 17th year as a proud partner. We remain committed to supporting the growth and success of the SSE Airtricity Men’s and Women’s Premier Divisions and the Men’s First Division. What makes this league truly special is that it’s powered by people - the volunteers, staff, coaches, and players who bring a different kind of energy to Irish football. Their passion is extraordinary, and we’re proud to be in their corner as we look forward to another brilliant season ahead."
