The 2026-27 Celtic Challenge final will be played at the ground of the highest-ranked team rather than a neutral venue. The cross-border competition features two clubs each from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, kicking off its new season on Saturday, 5 December.
Top seed hosts final match under new format changes
Teams will play five home and away fixtures during the regular season. Organizers introduced an added incentive for league placings this year, determining that the highest seed of the two semi-finals hosting the final match on the weekend of 27 March.
Last season saw Wolfhounds defeat Irish rivals Clovers in a final hosted at Hive Stadium in Edinburgh. The defending champions secured the title for the third successive season and will now open their 2026-27 campaign at home against Welsh side Brython Thunder in Belfast.
Opening Weekend Fixtures Across Three Nations
The cross-border tournament spans multiple weekends through the winter months. Alongside the Belfast opener, Edinburgh will travel to Ireland to face Clovers. Meanwhile, the other Welsh team, Gwalia Lightning, prepares to entertain Glasgow on the opening weekend.
Did you know?
The Celtic Challenge regular season spans ten rounds of fixtures, beginning on 5 December and concluding on 27 February, before leading into the semi-finals on 13 March.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2026-27 Celtic Challenge season start?
The competition gets under way on Saturday, 5 December, with round one fixtures scheduled across Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
Which teams compete in the Celtic Challenge?
The cross-border tournament features six clubs in total, comprising two teams from Ireland, two from Scotland, and two from Wales.
Where was the previous final played?
The last final took place at Hive Stadium in Edinburgh, where Wolfhounds defeated their Irish rivals Clovers to claim the title for the third season.
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