Derry City to host Dundalk after Oriel Park works prompt fixture swap

The League of Ireland have confirmed an update to the schedule for the opening stages of the 2026 SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division season.

Following a request from Dundalk FC regarding ongoing essential works at Oriel Park, the venues for the Round 2 and Round 11 fixtures involving Derry City FC have been reversed.

Lawrence Moore appointed as Derry City's first full-time Football Social Responsibility Officer

Having been the club’s Public Relations Officer for the last nine years, Lawrence will continue this role in his new full-time position

Both clubs reached a mutual agreement to the venue change to facilitate the start of the season.

The Round 2 clash, originally slated for Oriel Park, was rescheduled to be hosted by Derry City at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium in February. Consequently, the Round 11 fixture, initially scheduled for the Brandywell, was moved to Oriel Park for the April meeting.

Round 2 - Derry City v Dundalk, The Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium – Friday, February 13 2026 at 7.45pm.

Round 11 - Dundalk v Derry City, Oriel Park – Friday, April 10 2026 at 7.45pm.