The IRFU have confirmed changes to the AIL format which will come into effect for next season.
The changes are set to impact Buccaneers RFC, who are currently residing in division 2B.
From 2026/27, Divisions 2B and 2C will move into Energia All-Ireland League 2BN (North) and Energia All-Ireland League 2BS (South).
To form the divisions; a notional line will be drawn between O’Connell Bridge in Dublin and Eyre Square, Galway. Clubs north of this line will participate in 2BN while clubs south of this line will participate in 2BS.
Indeed, Buccaneers currently sit eighth in division 2B. Currently Buccs look set to take part in Energia All-Ireland League 2BN next season.
Decision driven by club feedback
In their statement the IRFU said; “The IRFU will ensure an even spread of clubs across both divisions should future relegation/promotion affect the balance”.
“The IRFU sincerely thanks Derek McGrath for leading a thorough review of the men’s Energia All-Ireland League” IRFU Director of Rugby Development, Colin McEntee.
“We listened carefully to stakeholders’ needs and feedback throughout the process. These structural changes represent a significant step forward in endorsing the long-term sustainability and growth of the Energia AIL”.
“By reducing travel and related costs, easing the demands on players, and implementing direct feedback from clubs and players, we are fostering a more sustainable and resilient league both on and off the field.”
The IRFU say; “This change is designed to assist clubs’ sustainability, by reducing travel distances and overnight stays, helping clubs to lower financial costs while also improving player welfare”.
“The restructuring directly reflects the feedback received from the rugby community, particularly from players, who identified travel demands as a significant challenge”.
“The IRFU has confirmed there are no additional structural changes planned, and will continue to act in the best interests of the competition should future developments require”.
Promotion Playoffs to continue
As part of the new structure, the team finishing 10th in Division 2A will be relegated to either 2BN or 2BS. Whereas, the first-place team 2BN and 2BS will play-off for the automatic promotion spot.
Home advantage in this play-off will be given to the side with the higher points total in the regular season.
The loser of that play-off will go in a four-team promotion/relegation play-off with the team finishing ninth in Division 2A; and the teams finishing second in 2BN and 2BS.
At the bottom of the league, the two teams finish ing10th in 2BN and 2BS will play-off, with the unsuccessful team relegated to their respective provincial competition in junior rugby. They will be replaced by the winner of the Junior Provincial Championship.
Indeed, the winner of this 10th v 10th game plays the runner-up of the Junior Provincial Championship. The winner of this final will play in either 2BN or 2BS the following season.
