We can confirm that an agreement has been reached for Solitude to host our European home fixtures this summer.
General Manager Niall Curneen issued the following statement:
“As a club, we did our utmost to ensure that Champions League football could be played within the Mid and East Antrim Borough for the first time, however, were unable to secure the support from our council and its officers.
“Firstly, I would like to thank Cliftonville and David Begley for accommodating and allowing us to use their facilities for our upcoming European campaign.
“The licensing process is always a stressful period each year, which is made significantly easier by the guidance provided by the Irish Football Association and its staff, who’s continued support we are thankful for. I would also like to thank our own club officials who have worked tirelessly in finding a new venue for us to play our home games at this summer.
“Our number one priority was to ensure that we secured a stadium which is as close to Larne as possible. With Solitude being just a 30-minute drive out of the town, we feel that this will be very accessible for our supporters who wish to attend each game.
“As a club, we will be committed to making additional travel arrangements for supporters to once again ensure that everyone who wants to attend our home games can do so. Further details of these arrangements will be announced once we have concrete fixture details to work from.
“Alongside accommodating supporters, Solitude provides the obvious benefit of remaining on an artificial playing surface which we felt was likely to be an important element of our ‘home advantage’ against any potential opponents we will face.
“It is now full steam ahead towards what we hope will be another memorable summer of playing on the European stage, and we look forward to having you on that journey with us.”
The draw for the first qualifying round of the UEFA Champions League will take place on Tuesday 20th June in Nyon, Switzerland. Supporters are advised to keep an eye on the club’s social media channels and website for further information on the lead up to the draw date.
