From reopened stands to new pitches and entirely new stadiums, 2026 is set to mark the next phase in the evolution of League of Ireland facilities.
Premier Division attendances rose by 8% in 2025, with a total of 683,208 supporters turning out to watch their local side.
In response to the increased attendances improvements in facilities are needed and in 2026 several League of Ireland clubs are doing just that.
It’s hoped that this will be just the beginning of a bigger and better League of Ireland.
Reopening of Drumcondra End Stand
n October 2021, Shelbourne confirmed the closure of the Drumcondra End Stand. The decision was made due to several structural issues, specifically relating to the roof.
However, following reinvestment in the “new stand”, a reopening is expected in March of this season, increasing Tolka Park’s capacity to over 6,000.
A Grass Pitch at The Brandywell
The widely criticised 4G artificial pitch at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium will soon be no more, with Derry City opting to install a new hybrid grass surface.
The project is expected to take a couple of months, forcing the Candystripes to relocate to Derry’s 18,500-capacity GAA stadium.
New signing James McClean will make his league debut at the Brandywell once the grass pitch installation is complete, with work expected to begin in April. The project must be finished before mid-July, when Derry City enter the UEFA Europa League qualification stage.
Finn Harps Stadium Construction
The Donegal club were granted planning permission for the construction of a new stadium in December. While the decision remains subject to the appeal period, the approval marks a major step forward in a project that has long been awaited by supporters.
Once completed, the stadium will have an approximate capacity of 5,580 and will meet UEFA Category 3 standards.
The club aims to begin construction in the spring of this year.
The Showgrounds Redevelopment
Sligo Rovers plan to kickstart the redevelopment of the The Showgrounds towards the end of 2026 with the project predicted to be completed for September of 2028.
The Bit O’Red will still play at their home ground in 2027 but with a reduced capacity of 3,200. Then, in 2028 a new grass pitch will be installed, forcing Sligo Rovers to relocate for a couple of months.
Once completed, The Showgrounds will become a 6,000 seater UEFA Category 3 stadium.
The redevelopment will also incorporate a public plaza and enhanced facilities for various community sports and groups along with upgrading academy and training facilities to support player development.
Dalymount Park Redevelopment
Similarly to Sligo Rovers, Bohemians plan to begin the redevelopment of Dalymount Park in late 2026.
The project will involve the demolition of the existing stadium and on-site structures, followed by the construction of a new 8,034-capacity stadium with an expected 6,240 seats.
The redevelopment is hoped to be completed before the start of the 2029 season.