Shankly Cup kicks off in June
Celebrating the Legacy of Bill Shankly Through Football, Culture and Unity
The Shankly Cup returns to Liverpool on 6 June 2026, where we will welcome teams from Scotland, Wales and Republic of Ireland.
The now annual youth football tournament, sponsored by Spirit of Shankly, continues to grow following the success of previous events. It has twice been hosted in Ayrshire, the birthplace of Bill Shankly, with fantastic support from the local council and the people of Glenbuck – the village where Shankly was born. Last year it took place for the first time in Liverpool, and is back this year for what we hope is another unforgettable day.
The Shankly Cup is far more than a football tournament. It is a celebration of one of football’s greatest icons, bringing together young players from across the nations that shaped and inspired the great man himself. It is a day of football, friendship, education, culture and fun, honouring Shankly’s values of teamwork, humility, passion and community.
We look forward to welcoming all the teams to Liverpool for a unique festival of football.
TOURNAMENT FORMAT
- Squads of 16 players
- Each team plays 3 x 30-minute games
- Teams change ends after 15 minutes
- Roll-on / roll-off substitutions
PARTICIPATION
Players born in 2012 / 2013 – each squad can also have 4 players max, born in 2011Â
SHANKLY CUP 2026
Date: Saturday 6 June
Time: 12noon to 5pm
Venue: Wyncote Sports Ground, Mather Avenue, Liverpool L18 6HFÂ
