FAI confirm Airtricity League 2013 structure

The Board of Management of the FAI have today confirmed that the 2013 Premier Division will be made up on 12 teams.

In a statement released, the FAI say that information meetings were held with clubs before the decision was made, adding that the decision was also discussed at the National League Executive Committee.

The FAI say that they will seek 'expessions of interest' from prospective First Division teams who contact them with an interest. These teams will have licencing manuals and relevant details forwarded and must apply for a licence to participate in the First Division in 2013.

With the demise of Monaghan United during the 2012 season, the First Division would be made up of the seven remaining teams, should no other teams come forward. Whether all seven remaining teams would be happy in a seven-team First Division remains unclear.

Statement in full:

"The Board of Management of the Football Association of Ireland today (September 19) confirmed the structure of the Airtricity League for 2013 season.

Prior to the decision, information meetings were held with clubs and the matter was also discussed by the National League Executive Committee.

The Board recommends a 12 club Airtricity League Premier Division for the 2013 season. The Board will also seek expressions of interest for First Division licences from clubs or new entities for the 2013 season. Interested clubs will be invited to contact the FAI in the first instance after which they will be forwarded a pack and a licensing manual to apply for an Airtricity League First Division license."