Football is undoubtedly a favourite pastime in Barbados and a fundamental part of Barbadian society. As one of the nation’s most popular sports, domestic matches are played regularly across the island, drawing generations of enthusiasts who love to support their teams and debate the latest results. Coupled with a host of regional and international competitions, locals and visitors alike can enjoy a full calendar of football action throughout the year.
Off the pitch, football in Barbados is evolving into more than just a game. Recent years have seen the sport used as a catalyst for social change and community cohesion, particularly for the nation’s youth. With such a vibrant and diverse football landscape, it’s no surprise that Barbados is a top Caribbean sporting destination for 2026.
Celebrating 115 Years of Football
The Barbados Football Association (BFA), founded in 1910, is the governing body for football in Barbados. It celebrated its 115th anniversary last year and has maintained longstanding membership with FIFA for over 50 years. The BFA is also a proud member of the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (Concacaf), the Caribbean Football Union (CFU), the Barbados Olympic Association (BOA), and the National Sports Council (NSC).
The official home of football in Barbados is the BFA Technical Centre at the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex in Wildey. Here, visitors will find the upgraded BFA Headquarters alongside a world-class FIFA-certified national pitch, courtesy of the FIFA Forward Programme. Barbados supports both male and female players, from youth to Masters, with over 70 registered local member clubs.
The national teams—the ‘Tridents’ and the ‘Lady Tridents’—proudly reflect the broken trident symbol from Barbados’ flag. Premier League matches are held weekly at the Technical Centre, while Divisions 1 and 2 take place across the island, each offering a unique atmosphere. Team training sessions, official tournaments, and regional and international competitions round out the action-packed football calendar.
2025 – Expanding Our Reach
In 2025, the BFA continued its commitment to developing football and expanding community outreach. In partnership with the National Peace Program (NPP) and the Government of Barbados, two additional community football hubs were launched to engage youth in positive activities. The BFA also introduced a community homework club, hosted a soccer festival, and conducted island-wide tours to strengthen social cohesion through sport.
The FIFA Football for Schools (F4S) program expanded to 26 local schools, empowering young players with life skills through football. Additionally, a new public health partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness focused on HIV/STI awareness and access to sexual reproductive health services, integrating football into broader community development.
On the field, the domestic Premier League, Divisions 1 and 2, the BFA Tropic Ace Women’s Tournament, and youth competitions like the Powerade and Dasani Youth Football Tournament kept the island buzzing with football activity. Internationally, Team Barbados participated in regional friendlies and Concacaf qualifiers, while local club Weymouth Wales finished as Runner Up in the 2025 CFU Club Shield, advancing to the Concacaf Caribbean Cup.
Women’s football reached new heights with a new Senior National Women’s Head Coach and expanded training for the Under-14 National Girls. Partnerships with Tropic Ace and Sole Play supported the growth of the women’s game, with the National Girls participating in the CFU Girls’ U-14 Challenge Series.
The FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) continued to nurture young talent aged 11–17, while referees developed through regional workshops and officiating opportunities across North and Central America and the Caribbean.
2025 also saw the return of the Prime Minister’s Cup, a semi-professional tournament with a BBD $100,000 prize, and the Barbados Invitational Masters Football Classic (BIMFC), the Caribbean’s largest Masters tournament, welcoming 33 teams and over 1,000 participants, including international teams from the UK, Canada, and the USA.
Significant milestones included the election of BFA President Randy Harris to the FIFA Council—the first Barbadian to hold the position—and the launch of the Elite Under-11 Youth Training Program, designed to holistically develop young talent. Local football achievements were also recognised at the 40th Annual National Sports Council Awards, with honours for coaches, teams, and players, including National Trident star Thierry Gale signing a BBD $1.2 million professional contract with England’s Bolton Wanderers.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The 2026 domestic season runs from January to June, featuring the Premier League, Divisions 1 and 2, the Women’s League, and youth competitions. The National Senior Men’s team will compete in League B of the Concacaf Nations League (CNL) in September, offering an electric atmosphere for spectators.
The HOM Aviation Cup returns from 16th–23rd May with an expanded festival format including pool parties, beach events, and live music. The 2026 BIMFC Tournament will take place from 22nd–25th May across four age categories, including a new 60-and-over division. The annual Prime Minister’s Cup will also return later in the year.
The BFA extends a warm invitation to international teams, school exchanges, and educators to collaborate and support the long-term growth of football in Barbados. With world-class facilities and a vibrant football culture, the island continues to cement its reputation as the ‘Gem of the Caribbean’ for football.
For More Information
For up-to-date match schedules and international fixtures, contact the BFA at office@barbadosfa.com or +1 (246) 538 2255. Visit www.barbadosfa.org or follow @barbadosfa on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.