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NIFL's Gerard Lawlor expresses concern over UEFA ranking drop

BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 23, 2026, 2:35 PM

Last updated Oct 23, 2026

NIFL's Gerard Lawlor expresses concern over UEFA ranking drop
Summary

Gerard Lawlor, CEO of the Northern Ireland Football League, comments on the league's recent drop to 51st in UEFA's association coefficient rankings. This change, following Iberia 1999's draw, suggests the Irish Premiership may lose a European competition spot for the 2028-29 season, reducing opportunities for clubs and impacting financial support. Lawlor emphasizes the need for clubs to reassess strategies to improve performance in Europe, noting that previous results have been insufficient. A potential restructuring of the league calendar is under consideration, pending approval from the majority of league clubs.

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BBC Sport
By the Numbers
  • •NIFL falls to 51st in UEFA rankings after Iberia 1999's draw.
  • •Loss of a European spot could occur by the 2028-29 season.
  • •Gerard Lawlor stresses the need for change within member clubs.
  • •NIFL's performance in Europe has been criticized as insufficient.
  • •A calendar change requires approval from 75% of NIFL clubs.
Latest Updates
  • 2:35 PMBBC Sport — Loss of Euro spot will be 'significant setback' - Lawlor
What they're saying
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Northern Ireland Football League CEO Gerard Lawlor says member clubs "cannot continue doing the same things" after falling to 51st in Uefa's association coefficient rankings.

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