AFC Bournemouth’s academy has secured Category One status ahead of the 2026/27 football season.
The classification is the highest available under the Elite Player Performance Plan and will allow the club’s young players to face stronger opposition across every age group, competition and development programme.
It also gives the academy wider access to Premier League and EFL competitions, alongside further support for education, performance, medical care and player development from the beginning of next season.
Owner and chairman Bill Foley said reaching Category One within four years of being in Category Three “demonstrates the progress” being made on and off the pitch at AFC Bournemouth.
Head of Academy Sam Gisborne described it as a “proud moment” and said the new status would give players regular opportunities to compete against the country’s leading academies throughout the season.
The award followed an assessment of coaching, education, player care, recruitment, facilities, medical provision and performance, with the club planning further investment in its academy pathway for years to come.
