From Clubs to the World Stage: WYLDE and the FAI Kick Off the eLeague of Ireland

The partnership between WYLDE and the Football Association of Ireland (FAI), first
announced last year, is now taking shape with the start of the eLeague of Ireland
(ELOI), scheduled for March 2026. This national EA FC esports competition brings
together Ireland’s top players and provides a clear path from local play to
international stages, giving competitors the chance to represent their clubs and the
country. As part of the agreement, Wylde will also be responsible for the EFAI Cup, a
youth competition for players aged 18 and under, which will help develop the next
generation of Irish esports talent.

A Clear Path from Local to Global

The ELOI features 20 of Ireland’s top players. Four spots are reserved for returning
competitors from last season, two additional places are given as invites and the
remaining 14 are earned through open qualifiers, including a youth event for players
under 18. By combining experienced players with emerging talent, the tournament
ensures that every competitor has the chance to progress and test themselves
against the best in the country.

The participants move through four stages, each building on the last, starting with
the qualifiers, then the league phase, followed by playoffs and finishing with the
offline finals at the National Esports Centre (NEC) through a process that helps
players track their advancement and prepare for the next challenge. The champion
will then take home a custom trophy and gain various opportunities to compete
internationally, including a place in the eChampions League 2026 and the FC Pro 26
World Championship play-ins at the Esports World Cup.

Supporting Young Talent

The EFAI Cup, taking place later this year, provides a national competition for
players aged 18 and under and is designed to help develop Ireland’s next generation
of esports players. It gives young competitors a platform to gain experience,
compete in organised matches and connect with other players. Top performers will
earn direct entry into the ELOI next year, creating a smooth path from grassroots
play to the top tier and giving emerging talent a clear goal to work toward.

Building on a Strong Foundation

Long before this agreement, Wylde has championed grassroots esports in Ireland,
including opening the NEC, a dedicated space for training and competition. Now, by
joining forces with the FAI, this mission extends into a fully structured national
competition, giving Irish players real opportunities to compete, improve and
represent their clubs and country. With the ELOI underway, the partnership’s vision is
becoming a reality, connecting football and esports and inspiring the next generation
of Irish talent.

By Rafael Silva
#GoWYLDE