CK United have been confirmed as one of the 15 clubs selected to compete in the new FAI National League, the League of Ireland’s third tier, which is set to get underway in Autumn 2026.
The inaugural season will be a truncated campaign, with promotion to the League of Ireland First Division not available in the first year of competition. Promotion and relegation are expected to be introduced from the 2027 season onwards.
CK United will be a founding member of the new league, marking a significant milestone for soccer in the Carlow–Kilkenny region.
In a statement, the club said:
“We are delighted to confirm that CK United’s application to join the new Football Association of Ireland (FAI) National League has been successful. As a proud founding member of this exciting new competition, we look forward to working closely with the FAI and fellow clubs to shape what is a landmark development for football pathways and player progression in Ireland.”
The FAI confirmed a total of 15 clubs for the new league, which will sit directly below the League of Ireland First Division. The line-up includes a mix of former League of Ireland clubs and ambitious regional sides from across the country.
Teams confirmed for the FAI National League (from 2026)
Leinster (6)
- CK United (Carlow/Kilkenny)
- Home Farm (Dublin)
- Lucan United (Dublin)
- St. Francis (Dublin)
- TU Dublin (Dublin)
- Newbridge Town (Kildare)
Ulster (Donegal) (3)
- Bonagee United
- Cockhill Celtic
- Letterkenny Rovers
Connacht (3)
- Salthill Devon (Galway)
- Mervue United (Galway)
- Mayo FC
Munster (3)
- UCC Soccer (Cork)
- Villa FC (Waterford)
- Killarney Celtic (Kerry)
