Ireland Rugby announces new All-Ireland League format for 2026/27

The Energia All-Ireland League is set to implement a new competition structure for the 2026/27 season. Following consultations, the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) and Energia have announced changes aimed at increasing competitiveness and promoting sustainable travel for clubs.

The women’s competition will transition to a two-division format consisting of Division 1A and Division 1B. In the men’s league, the existing Divisions 2B and 2C will be replaced by two regionalized sections: Division 2BN (North) and Division 2BS (South). This restructuring is intended to reduce travel demands for players and volunteers.

The men’s season is scheduled to begin on September 26, 2026, while the women’s season starts on October 10, 2026. The season will culminate in a finals double-header at the Aviva Stadium on April 25, 2027.