Scottish football's tier five is set for a major overhaul, introducing a new structure for the 2026-27 season.
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In a significant move for Scottish football, a comprehensive restructuring of tier five is on the horizon, set to take effect in the 2026-27 season. This initiative aims to create a more balanced and competitive environment within the sport, addressing geographical disparities and club distribution.
Introducing a new three-pillar structure
The proposed changes, first reported by the Press and Journal, will replace the existing setup of the Breedon Highland League and Lowland League with a new three-pillar structure. This will consist of the Lowland League East and Lowland League West, alongside the Highland League.
The restructuring is designed to better reflect the geographical layout of Scotland, particularly considering the population and club distribution.
Under the new framework, the Highland League will receive teams from the North Region Juniors and the North Caledonian League. Meanwhile, the Midlands and East of Scotland Leagues will contribute to the Lowland League East, while the West of Scotland League and South of Scotland will feed into the Lowland League West. This realignment is expected to enhance competitive balance and provide more opportunities for clubs across the regions.
Geographical considerations and club support
One of the driving forces behind this restructuring is the need to address the geographical realities of Scottish football. The Lowland League area boasts a significantly larger population compared to the Highland League area, with a greater number of clubs affiliated with the Scottish FA. This disparity has prompted stakeholders to reconsider the existing league structure to ensure fairer competition.
Highland League president Sandy Sinclair expressed strong support for the proposal, emphasizing its alignment with economic and geographical realities. He stated, “It’s our view that this is a logical step to take based on the economic and geographical realities of Scotland – and specifically the Highland and Lowland Leagues.” The unanimous backing from every Highland League club underscores the widespread agreement on the necessity of these changes.
Operational details and future implications
In recent months, a working group comprising representatives from various leagues and organizations has been diligently working to finalize the operational details of the new structure. Following a productive meeting, it has been confirmed that the final operational issues have been resolved, paving the way for the new structure to be implemented in the upcoming season.
With the approval of the SPFL and SFA already secured, the final step involves ratification at league AGMs, which are anticipated to be routine given the consensus reached among the leagues involved. This restructuring not only aims to enhance competition but also to preserve the rich history and identity of the Highland League, which has been a cornerstone of Scottish football for over a century.
As Scottish football prepares for this transformative phase, the focus remains on fostering a competitive environment that reflects the diverse landscape of the nation. The collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved in this process highlight a commitment to the growth and sustainability of the sport across Scotland.
