Mayo FC barred from Milebush as talks with League collapse

Mayo FC will no longer be permitted to use Umbro Park, Milebush after negotiations with the Mayo Football League (MFL) over a pricing agreement broke down.

In an email circulated to affiliated clubs, the league confirmed that discussions with Mayo FC regarding the use of pitches at Umbro Park had failed, despite what it described as “several good offers” being put forward.

“As of this point forward Mayo FC will no longer be permitted the use of Umbro Park Milebush,” the statement said.

The Mayo Football League also claimed that, as of January 9, 2026, it had not received any payment from Mayo FC for the use of the facility and stated that the club had “never made any contribution to the cost of lights, heating or any running cost”.

Mayo FC sources replied that Mayo FC were given a two-year rent amnesty to establish the club at Umbro Park, Milebush, which only ended on January 1, 2026 and that correspondence from their end with the league regarding rent and costs commenced in September of 2025.

The correspondence further states that the league intends to contact the League of Ireland and the FAI, claiming it had never been asked to submit documentation or give permission for Mayo FC to be based out of Umbro Park for the upcoming season or the new Tier 3 competition.

The email, signed by members of the Mayo Football League Management Committee and seen below, also referenced a final proposal that had been sent to Mayo FC prior to talks breaking down.

Documents attached to the correspondence outline a proposed pricing agreement rather than a lease, with the league reserving the right to terminate usage at any time. Under the terms, fees were to be paid monthly, with a €4,000 deposit required.

The proposed pricing included €45 per hour for astro pitch training and matches, €200 per match for the grass pitch, and provisions around cancellations, insurance indemnities and facility usage.

The agreement also stated that Mayo FC would not have an office or permanent base at Umbro Park and that meetings would no longer take place on site.

All Mayo FC equipment, according to the proposal, would be required to be stored in an external container, with no responsibility taken by the league for items left in the main building.

The situation leaves Mayo FC facing uncertainty regarding training and match facilities as preparations continue ahead of the new season with the first clash of the League of Ireland season for the new Under-20 side against Shelbourne slated for Umbro Park on Saturday, February 21.

Both Mayo FC and Mayo Football League officials declined to make a comment.