Football: Ayre United take voluntary relegation for new season

Governors Athletic to only field combi side for 2026/27

Ayre United have taken voluntary relegation to the second tier of Manx football ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The Isle of Man Football Association has confirmed it has accepted a request by the club to move down to Ardern & Druggan Ltd. Division 2 which is due to Ayre United losing multiple players over the summer and struggling for numbers.

It will be the only team the club fields this season as it will not enter a combination squad for the forthcoming campaign.

Separately, the FA has also given the green light to a request from Governors Athletic to only put out a combination team for the new season due to numerous individuals leaving the club during the summer period.

As a result, Governors Athletic will only contest Ardern & Druggan Ltd. Combination Two.

Elsewhere, it's also been announced that Michael United will return to Ardern & Druggan Ltd. Division 2 as they are now in a position to submit both first and combination sides.

These developments add to the notable changes ahead of the 2026/27 season which also include a merger between Gymnasium AFC and Douglas Athletic which was announced earlier this month.

In that regard, both of those teams join together and will compete at senior level under the name of Gymnasium AFC in Ardern & Druggan Ltd. Division 2 and Ardern & Druggan Ltd. Combination Two.