A new book charting Glentoran Football Club’s journey since the turn of the millennium, ‘Nearly … Glentoran in the 21st Century’, will be published on 8 April 2026.

The book captures a defining period in the Club’s modern history from one of the most successful decades on the pitch to the financial challenges that followed, culminating in the temporary closure of The Oval and the beginning of a new chapter with the arrival of owner Ali Pour in 2019.

Written by lifelong supporter Ian Clarke, the book offers a unique insight into the Club during this period. Ian served as Glentoran’s Head of Media and as a Board Director and draws on his own experiences alongside a series of candid interviews.

‘Nearly … Glentoran in the 21st Century’ features contributions from former chairmen, directors, managers, players and supporters, providing an honest and detailed account of the challenges and progress across the past 25 years.

It also includes an exclusive interview with majority shareholder Ali Shams Pour, reflecting on his involvement with the Club and its development in recent years.

At its heart, the book recognises the role of Glentoran supporters, whose loyalty and commitment have remained constant throughout some of the most challenging periods in the Club’s history. This is their story.

Launch Events

Launch events for ‘Nearly … Glentoran in the 21st Century’ will take place at the Sanctuary Theatre in East Belfast on Wednesday 8 April and Thursday 9 April 2026. Each evening will include a panel discussion featuring author Ian Clarke alongside key figures from the period covered in the book.

Admission is free, however capacity is limited. Supporters are encouraged to register in advance via a TicketSource: https://share.google/W4QtfXQeZdIcEQQ6a