The race for promotion to the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League begins today, with seven clubs competing in the 2026 Elite League Qualification playoff.
The tournament, which follows the conclusion of the East Bank Football Association’s qualifying competition two weeks ago, will be played in a single-elimination knock-out format and offers clubs from across Guyana an opportunity to secure a place in the country’s top-tier football competition.
At stake is direct qualification to the 2026/2027 Elite League season for the tournament champion. The runner-up will also have an opportunity to earn promotion by facing Fruta Conquerors, who finished ninth in the 2025/2026 Elite League Season Seven campaign, in a promotion playoff for the final available spot.
The participating teams are Potaro Strikers Football Club (FC) of the Bartica Football Association, Paradise Invaders FC of the Berbice Football Association, Mahaica Determinators FC of the East Demerara Football Association, Queenstown FC of the Essequibo Coast/Pomeroon Football Association, Camptown FC of the Georgetown Football Association, Beavers FC of the West Demerara Football Association, and Timehri United FC of the East Bank Football Association.
With seven teams involved, one club will receive a bye into the virtual semi-final stage, while the remaining teams will compete in the opening round of the knockout tournament.
According to the GFF, the qualification playoff remains a key component of its competition structure, creating a pathway for clubs from member associations around the country to reach the highest level of domestic football.
Tournament regulations permit each club to register a maximum squad of 25 players along with five officials for the duration of the competition.
The playoff is expected to provide a competitive test for the participating clubs as they pursue promotion and a place among the nation’s elite football teams next season.
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