Northern Ireland Football League Announces 36.8% Increase in Prize Money

The Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) has announced a 36.8% increase in prize money across its competitions starting from the 2025/26 season. This latest uplift means prize funds have increased by almost 67% since the 2021/22 campaign, providing stronger financial support for clubs across the men’s and women’s game.

The Northern Ireland Football League prize money increase has been confirmed today, with the league announcing a 36.8% rise in prize funds across its competitions.

The uplift represents one of the most significant increases in the league’s history and highlights the organisation’s commitment to supporting clubs and strengthening the domestic game.

The enhanced prize fund will be distributed across NIFL competitions and will benefit clubs competing in both the men’s and women’s top tiers of football in Northern Ireland.

Prize Money Up Nearly 67% Since 2021

This latest increase builds on strong financial growth in recent seasons.

Between the 2021/22 campaign and the 2024/25 season, prize money across all competitions had already risen by 30%.

With the newest increase included, overall prize funds have now risen by almost 67% since the 2021/22 season.

The growth reflects continued progress in areas such as:

• Commercial partnerships
• Broadcast coverage
• Fan engagement
• Competition development

For more details on the league and competitions, visit the Northern Ireland Football League website:
https://www.nifootballleague.com

You can also follow the league’s latest updates on their official X page:
https://x.com/NIFL_Official

NIFL Chief Executive Welcomes Investment in the Game

NIFL Chief Executive Gerard Lawlor said the increase reflects the continued growth of the league and its ambition to deliver greater value for clubs and supporters.

“This increase in prize money demonstrates our commitment to investing back into the game and supporting our clubs. The Northern Ireland Football League continues to grow both commercially and competitively, and it is important that this progress translates into meaningful financial benefits for our members.”

New Prize Structure Applies From 2025/26 Season

The revised prize structure will apply immediately from the 2025/26 season.

The move aims to:

• Reward clubs for strong performances on the pitch
• Improve financial sustainability for teams
• Support the continued development of football in Northern Ireland

Fans can stay up to date with fixtures, results and standings through the official NIFL competition pages:
https://www.nifootballleague.com/premiership
https://www.nifootballleague.com/championship

Positive Progress for Clubs and Supporters

NIFL Chair Chris Brindley described the increase as an important step forward for the league and its clubs.

“This uplift is a positive step for the league and for our clubs. It reflects the collective progress being made across Northern Ireland football and our ambition to continue raising standards both on and off the pitch.”

The announcement follows continued progress in commercial partnerships, broadcasting opportunities and supporter engagement across the league.