07/08/2026

BBC Sport NI, Irish FA And NIFL Seal Three-Year Free-To-Air Football Deal

BBC Sport NI has signed a fresh three-year broadcast partnership with the Irish FA and the Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL), expanding live and on-demand access to international and domestic football for audiences across Northern Ireland.

The deal extends comprehensive coverage on BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport online, BBC Radio Ulster, BBC Sounds and BBC television, building on existing commitments to the local game. Fans will benefit from more live matches, highlights and digital clips, making it easier than ever to follow their teams throughout the season.

Under the agreement, BBC Sport NI will provide:

- Continued coverage of Northern Ireland Senior Women’s International matches

- 30 live Boyle Sports Premiership streams

- The Clearer Water Irish Cup Final live on BBC television and BBC iPlayer, plus streamed coverage of games from Fifth Round to the final.

- The BetMcLean Cup Final live on BBC television and BBC iPlayer

- Live coverage of the Boyle Sports Premiership on BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Sounds

- Digital clips and highlights from NIFL and Irish Cup games across BBC platforms
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This announcement follows confirmation that BBC Sport NI will carry every Northern Ireland Senior Men’s International up to June 2028, ensuring the biggest international fixtures remain available to viewers free-to-air.

Taken together, the agreements emphasise BBC Sport NI’s commitment to showcasing football at all levels — from national teams to league action and cup competitions — while further elevating the women’s game.

Coverage will include live match action, expert analysis, highlights and a broad range of digital content, keeping supporters connected at home and on the move.

Colin McKendry, Irish Football Association President said: "We are delighted that the Clearer Water Irish Cup, our flagship domestic cup competition, and Northern Ireland senior women’s international matches will continue to be showcased on BBC Sport NI.

"Their coverage has played a significant role in raising their profile reaching new audiences and inspiring more people to engage with football across Northern Ireland.

"Alongside them and our partners at NIFL, this agreement will ensure supporters have even more opportunities to watch, follow and enjoy the game, while helping to grow the sport at every level."

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