Linfield Host Title Rivals Larne in Windsor Park Showdown
BELFAST, 16 January 2026 – Linfield FC, the most decorated domestic league club in world football, prepare for a pivotal NIFL Premiership fixture against Larne at Windsor Park this evening (7.45pm). The Blues, under the stewardship of Northern Irish legend David Healy, currently sit atop one iteration of the league table as they aim to extend their record-breaking haul of 57 national championships.
Tonight’s Premiership Encounter
The match against Larne represents a significant test in the 2025-26 campaign. Official club previews and a matchday programme have been published, highlighting the importance of the fixture. Larne have proven to be consistent challengers in recent seasons, making this a key battle for points. The Blues will be looking to capitalise on their strong home form at their famous south Belfast ground, which they have called home since 1905.
A Club of Unrivalled Pedigree
Founded by mill workers in March 1886, Linfield’s history is one of unprecedented domestic dominance. The club holds the world record for the most national top-flight titles won by any club, with 57 Irish League championships. Their trophy cabinet also includes 44 Irish Cup victories – the second-highest tally globally – and a world-record 25 domestic doubles. Unique in football history, the club completed a clean sweep of all seven available trophies in the 1921-22 season, a feat unmatched anywhere else in the world.
The Current Campaign
The 2025-26 season presents a complex picture. In a truncated six-game league table, Linfield lead the way with 16 points from five wins and a draw. However, in the broader Premiership standings covering 22 matches, the Blues occupy fourth place with 39 points, demonstrating the highly competitive nature of the league. The team’s form has been mixed in recent months; a 2-0 defeat to Portadown in October 2025 was a setback, but a 3-0 victory over Bangor in late September showcased their attacking capabilities.
The Healy Factor
Leading the side is David Healy, the former Northern Ireland international and the country’s all-time leading goalscorer. Appointed manager in October 2015, Healy has continued the club’s tradition of success. His tenure has seen Linfield reclaim their status as the team to beat in Northern Ireland, blending experienced campaigners with promising talent in a squad that regularly competes in European qualifiers.
Linfield FC: Key Facts & Figures
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| World Record | Most national league titles (57) |
| Irish Cup Wins | 44 (Second-most in world football) |
| Home Ground | Windsor Park, Belfast (Capacity: ~18,500) |
| Manager | David Healy (appointed 2015) |
| Main Rival | Glentoran (The ‘Big Two’ Belfast derby) |
| European Highlight | Quarter-finals of 1966-67 European Cup |
Frequently Asked Questions
What world record does Linfield FC hold?
Linfield FC holds the world record for the most national top-division championships won by any football club, with 57 Irish League titles to their name. This places them ahead of renowned clubs like Rangers (55) and Celtic (54) in Scotland, and Peñarol (52) in Uruguay.
What is Linfield’s biggest rivalry?
Linfield’s primary rivalry is with fellow Belfast club Glentoran, a fixture historically known as the ‘Big Two’ derby. The match, often played on Boxing Day, traditionally attracts the largest domestic league attendance of the season in Northern Ireland.
Where do Linfield play their home matches?
Linfield have played at Windsor Park in south Belfast since 1905. The stadium, which is also the home of the Northern Ireland national team, has a capacity of approximately 18,500 and is the largest football-specific ground in the country.