sport
League of Ireland: A Guide to Dublin's Football Clubs
Dublin is home to several League of Ireland clubs with long histories and passionate support. Here is a guide to the capital's senior football teams.
How we reported this
The League of Ireland is the country's senior football competition, run under the Football Association of Ireland, and Dublin is its heartland. The capital is home to several clubs with long histories and dedicated local followings, and the league's summer season runs from around February to November, distinct from the winter calendar used in many other countries.
The main Dublin clubs
Shamrock Rovers, one of the most successful clubs in Irish football history, play at Tallaght Stadium in the south-west of the city. Bohemian FC play at Dalymount Park in Phibsborough, one of the oldest grounds in the country. St Patrick's Athletic are based at Richmond Park in Inchicore, while Shelbourne play at Tolka Park on the north side. Each club has its own traditions and neighbourhood identity.
Going to a game
League of Ireland matches offer an affordable and atmospheric alternative to larger sporting events, with tickets typically much cheaper than international football and grounds close to the communities they represent. Fixtures are usually played on Friday evenings during the season, and tickets can be bought online or at the turnstiles for many games.
A growing scene
Attendances at League of Ireland matches have risen in recent seasons, helped by investment in facilities and growing interest in the domestic game. Several Dublin clubs also field strong women's teams competing in the national women's league, and youth academies feed talent into the senior game.
How to follow along
The official League of Ireland and FAI websites carry fixtures, results and ticketing information, and each club maintains its own site and social media. For visitors and residents alike, a Friday night at a Dublin ground is one of the most authentic sporting experiences the city offers.