'A line between O’Connell Bridge and Eyre Square'- All-Ireland League restructuring revealed

The IRFU have confirmed plans for next season. 

CHANGES: The IRFU has confirmed plans aimed at supporting sustainability and growth, after a feedback process. Pic: INPHO/Ben Brady

The men's Energia All-Ireland League will be restructured next season, the IRFU have revealed, with two divisions to be regionalised.

Divisions 2B and 2C will be changed to the Energia All-Ireland League 2BN (North) and Energia All-Ireland League 2BS (South) - starting from the 2026/2027 campaign.

To form the divisions, a line will be drawn between O’Connell Bridge in Dublin and Eyre Square, Galway. 

Clubs north of this line will participate in 2BN while clubs south of this line will participate in 2BS. The IRFU say they will ensure an even spread of clubs across both divisions should relegation/promotion affect the balance.

“The IRFU sincerely thanks Derek McGrath for leading a thorough review of the men’s Energia All-Ireland League. We listened carefully to stakeholders' needs and feedback throughout the process," IRFU Director of Rugby Development, Colin McEntee said.

"These structural changes represent a significant step forward in endorsing the long-term sustainability and growth of the Energia AIL. By reducing travel and related costs, easing the demands on players, and implementing direct feedback from clubs and players, we are fostering a more sustainable and resilient league both on and off the field.”

The IRFU has confirmed there are no additional structural changes planned.