2026 League of Ireland Outright Odds: Shamrock Rovers Early Favourites with BAR 1 Betting
BAR 1 Betting has become the first bookmaker to go live with outright betting on the 2026 SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division, and it’s no surprise to see Shamrock Rovers installed as early 5/4 favourites to defend their league title.
Stephen Bradley’s side underlined their dominance in 2025 by completing a historic league and cup double, and once again set the benchmark heading into the new season. With consistency, squad depth, and big-game experience on their side, the Hoops head the early League of Ireland title betting.
Chasing Pack Lining Up Behind the Champions
Last season’s runners-up Derry City are next best in the betting at 4/1. The Candystripes finished just three points adrift in 2025 and have strengthened significantly during the close season as they bid to land a first league title since 1997.
Shelbourne are priced at 5/1 to claim a second league crown in three seasons after Joey O’Brien guided the Reds to a third-place finish and European qualification, despite the high-profile departure of Damien Duff. St Patrick’s Athletic, who face Shels on the opening weekend, are available at 6/1 following a disappointing campaign under former Ireland manager Stephen Kenny.
Bohemians continue to grab headlines off the pitch through their innovative merchandise strategy at Dalymount Park, but translating that success into a sustained title challenge remains the big question. The Gypsies are currently 10/1 in the outright betting.
Outsiders to Watch in 2026
Drogheda United showed major improvement under Kevin Doherty last season and are priced at 33/1 to win just a second league title in their 106-year history. Sligo Rovers and Waterford FC are both available at 50/1, with the Blues entering a new era under manager Jon Daly after narrowly avoiding relegation.
Galway United, who have already lost several key players during the winter window, are priced at 66/1, alongside newly promoted Dundalk. The Lilywhites return to the Premier Division after winning the First Division title and will be aiming to re-establish themselves at the top level.
2026 League of Ireland Fixtures Confirmed
The release of the outright odds follows confirmation of the 2026 SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division fixture list, with Shamrock Rovers beginning their title defence at Tallaght Stadium on Friday, February 6, against Dundalk.
For the second season running, the Aviva Stadium will host an opening-weekend showpiece, as Dublin rivals Bohemians and St Patrick’s Athletic meet on Sunday, February 8. Elsewhere, Derry City welcome Sligo Rovers to the Ryan McBride Brandywell, while 2024 champions Shelbourne travel to Waterford on opening night.
BAR 1 Betting Reaction
Speaking following the release of the 2026 League of Ireland outright odds, BAR 1 Betting Head of Media & LOI TV Commentator Kieran Burke said:
“Shamrock Rovers have been the standard-bearers of the League of Ireland in recent seasons, lifting six of the last seven league titles, and it’s no surprise to see them head the market once again.
“Derry City pushed them close last year and have strengthened well, while both Shelbourne and St Patrick’s Athletic will be hoping for much better starts this time around.
“As a Dundalk-based bookmaker, we’re delighted to see the Lilywhites back in the Premier Division and we’re really looking forward to another hugely competitive season.”
LOI Prices Available In Store
Visit your nearest BAR 1 Betting shop for the latest 2026 LOI Outright prices. You can find a convenient shop for you using our shop locator.
