THE Irish Football Association (IFA) yesterday suspended all activities until April 4 due to coronavirus.
The organisation had initially said it hoped to continue playing games this weekend, but in a further statement it said the escalation of the crisis had forced a suspension at all levels for the next three weeks.
"In response to the evolving situation around coronavirus (Covid-19) and having listened to partners throughout the football family, the board has suspended the current football season, at both domestic and grassroots level.
"The decision has been made with public health but, equally, the health and safety of players, match officials, staff and volunteers front of mind.
"We expect games to restart on Saturday 4 April 2020.
"The matter will be kept under constant review.
"This means no affiliated football will be played in Northern Ireland until that time."
The news comes after a Linfield player tested positive for coronavirus.
Earlier yesterday, all top-level English and Scottish football was postponed. The GAA had also suspended all activity earlier this week.
