Football Association of Ireland announces Facilities and Infrastructure Vision and Strategy
This vision and strategy analyses the facility and infrastructure needs of Ireland’s number one participation sport to ensure it is set up for success and can cater for the needs of future generations.
Total investment proposed of €863m over a 15-year period focusing on the three core areas of Grassroots (€426m), League of Ireland (€390m) and International (€47m) and with a proposed funding approach from both public and private sources.
Grassroots investment focusing on new pitches, upgrades to existing pitches, new and upgraded clubhouses and more multi-sport, community-focused facilities with the FAI Club Mark scheme at the heart of proposed changes as well as the formation of eight new FAI grassroots regions. Of particular concern at grassroots level is football for women and girls which has experienced exponential growth in popularity but will suffer without investment in facilities, as they will not be able to cater for ongoing demand and growth.
League of Ireland investment focusing on Academies and connected training facilities and LOI stadia and delivering a sustainable League that serves the needs of communities and football in every region. Investment will also support the development of talent in a post- Brexit environment as more young players remain in Ireland.
International investment focusing on the development of a National Football Centre and high-quality facilities in order to produce competitive teams at all levels that can qualify for tournaments on a regular basis.
