IFA and NIFL express surprise as FAI's announcement of cross-border 'champions' cup'

The Irish Football Association and Northern Ireland Football League have distanced themselves from the announcement of a new cross-border competition at today’s League of Ireland launch.

Football Association of Ireland director of competitions Fran Gavin revealed that the Premier Division winners would face the Irish Premiership champions in a two-legged fixture later this year.

It has since emerged, however, that, while talks have been ongoing between the two associations, no agreement has yet been made.

The FAI and IFA have been in talks regarding a potential competition between the respective league winners but, the IFA confirmed, nothing has been finalised.

Gavin told reporters at the league launch: “We've seen some fantastic spectacles and occasions from cross-border competitions like the Setanta Sports Cup in the past.

“We're delighted to work with the IFA in reintroducing it to the domestic football calendar."

The IFA told media outlets: "While nothing has been confirmed at this stage, discussions about a potential new cross-border game between the NIFL Premiership Champions and the winners of the League of Ireland have been going on for the past few months.

"The Irish FA welcomes exploring the format which could bring substantial revenues for the clubs involved both in terms of prize money and gate receipts.

“The Irish FA will continue to work to ensure therefore that any new competition works for the good of clubs and the league in Northern Ireland."

The NI Football League, which runs the club competitions under the IFA’s jurisdiction, released a statement expressing their surprise at the announcement.



It read: "The NI Football League note today’s announcement at the SSE Airtricity League Launch regarding the potential formation of a new competition between the winners of the of the Danske Bank Premiership and SSE Airtricity League.

"We were aware that initial discussions had taken place between the Irish FA and FAI but did not expect any formal announcements at this stage.

"We look forward to consultation and receiving further detail regarding this opportunity, which we will consider with our member clubs."