Irish FA: new state-of-the-art national centre to be located near Galgorm resort

Plans for a new multi-million pound National Football Centre for Northern Ireland, were being unveiled today (Wednesday) in Co Antrim.

The new state-of-the-art facility is to be built on a 50-acre site opposite the famous Galgorm resort.

It will feature what the Irish Football Association said will be "world-class" pitches and "cutting-edge" training facilities.

According to the IFA this will inspire a new generation to reach their full potential.

It intends to use the centre to "nurture" elite talent but also support youth development and bolster overall team performance.

Irish FA President Conrad Kirkwood said the project would have far-reaching benefits.

He said: "Realising this project will significantly benefit our teams and players, creating an impressive football campus and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

“We anticipate the National Football Centre being a bespoke, world-class facility with a distinct Northern Ireland identity, serving players of all ages, both male and female, while also benefiting the local community and grassroots football.”

The collaboration with Galgorm reflects a shared vision of excellence and innovation.

Colin Johnston, Managing Director of Galgorm, emphasised the significance of the partnership.

He said: “This exciting announcement marks the partnership of two major global brands which are united by a shared commitment to excellence and to supporting our communities.

“We’re immensely proud to be playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of football in Northern Ireland, supporting the success of our national teams while fostering growth at every level of the game.”

The facility will complement the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park in Belfast, creating a dual campus set-up to strengthen Northern Ireland’s football infrastructure.

Irish FA Chief Executive Patrick Nelson highlighted the meticulous planning behind the initiative.

He explained: "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Projects like this don’t happen overnight, and this is the result of significant strategic thinking.

“We have been able to amass capital funding over a long period to make this vision a reality, and we look forward to working with our partners at Galgorm in the coming years.”

The centre is designed to inspire the next generation of footballers, providing a platform for excellence at every level of the game.

Aaron Hughes, the Irish FA’s Technical Director, reinforced its role in competitive development.

He said: "Facilities are crucial to our ongoing development as a football nation. This partnership provides an excellent opportunity to gain a competitive edge in preparation, planning and development at all levels."

The project has also received resounding support from Northern Ireland’s senior international managers.

Michael O’Neill, Northern Ireland senior men’s team manager, said: “This new national football centre will help the current international teams prepare for games better than ever.

“It will also inspire our future international stars on their journey in football from a young age. High quality pitches where coaches and players can work are essential for creating a high performance environment and strong identity across all age groups."

Tanya Oxtoby, Northern Ireland senior women’s team manager, added: "This initiative reaffirms our commitment to developing top tier facilities and resources for our players. It strengthens our culture of excellence and high performance."

With the design phase under way, the Irish FA is working to secure statutory permissions and initiate procurement and construction. It is anticipated that the centre will open its doors in 2028, marking a pivotal moment in Northern Ireland’s football legacy.