About FC Shirak

FC Shirak is a professional football club based in Gyumri, Armenia, and is one of the oldest and most traditional clubs in the country. The club was originally founded in 1958 during the Soviet era and was known as Shirak Leninakan, later changing its name after the city of Leninakan was renamed Gyumri. Shirak has played a major role in Armenian football since the formation of the national league following Armenia’s independence in 1992.

The club is one of the founding members of the Armenian Premier League and has a strong domestic history. Shirak was among the first champions of the league in 1992, sharing the title with Pyunik after both teams finished level on points. Over the years, the club has remained one of the most competitive sides in Armenia, winning multiple league titles, Armenian Cups, and Super Cups, and consistently competing in top positions of the domestic competition.

Shirak is also known for its strong identity and loyal fanbase, whose supporters are called the “Black Panthers.” The club plays its home matches at Gyumri City Stadium, one of the oldest stadiums in Armenia. Beyond domestic success, Shirak has regularly participated in UEFA competition qualifiers, representing Armenian football in Europe and contributing to the development of players through its youth academy.