1985–86 League of Ireland First Division

The inaugural First Division featured ten teams.In 1985 five teams – Bray Wanderers, Cobh Ramblers, Derry City, E.M.F.A.and Newcastle United – were elected to join the League of Ireland.All five subsequently participated in the inaugural 1985–86 First Division season, along with Monaghan United from the League of Ireland B Division and four clubs – Drogheda United, Finn Harps, Longford Town and Sligo Rovers – who were relegated following the 1984–85 League of Ireland season.Bray Wanderers were the inaugural First Division champions.
League of Ireland First DivisionBray WanderersSligo RoversFinn HarpsHarry McLoughlin1986–87Cobh RamblersDerry CityE.M.F.A.Newcastle UnitedLeague of IrelandMonaghan UnitedLeague of Ireland B DivisionDrogheda UnitedLongford Town1984–85 League of IrelandPremier DivisionNewcastle United F.C.Newcastlewest F.C.1985–86 League of Ireland Premier DivisionAthlone TownCork CityTreaty UnitedWexford1987–881988–891989–901990–911991–921992–931993–941994–951995–961996–971997–981998–991999–20002000–012001–022002–03Shield