League of Ireland introduce new Women's Development League ahead of 2026 season

League of Ireland Director Mark Scanlon. Pic: Gareth Chaney/ Collins Photos

The League of Ireland has introduced a new Women’s Development League ahead of the 2026 season "to expand the playing opportunities for players and clubs".

The new league - endorsed by Uefa as part of their Women’s League Development Fund - will allow the current 12 SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division clubs to enter an Under-23 team into a competitive league.