Carlisle United won’t take part in the National League Cup

The club says the competition isn't right for them, based on past experience

Author: Julie CastonPublished 8th Jul 2025

Carlisle United Football Club have confirmed they will not take part in the National League Cup.

The club says the competition isn't right for them, based on past experience.

It's thought the move will mean they can focus more of their efforts on promotion back to the football league.

The Blues were relegated from League Two at the end of the 2024-2025 season with one game left to play. Next season they will play in the National League.

In a statement Carlisle United said:

"After consulting internally with the football department, 1921 Directors and representatives from the Carlisle United Supporters Trust, the club has decided not to enter this season's National League Cup."

Chief Executive, Nigel Clibbens said:

"The board held discussions internally and reached the view that given the nature of the competition and previous experience in the EFL trophy, the right choice was not to enter."

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