IF Elfsborg's history began on June 26, 1904 when 19 teenage boys formed the association. The club, then called Borås Fotbollslag, changed its name to IF Elfsborg as early as 1906. This historical look back was published in early September 2026, as the team holds a strong fourth place in Allsvenskan with 31 points from 19 matches.
The club's current successes, with recent form of WDWWW, have roots in this simple beginning. The 19 founders, all in their late teens, gathered to create a football team in the city. Just two years later, in 1906, IF Elfsborg became a member of the Swedish Sports Confederation (Riksidrottsförbundet). That was also the year the name was established to the one we know today.
The young men who started IF Elfsborg were not established sports figures but ordinary teenagers with a shared interest. Their age, in their late teens, points to an organization driven by enthusiasm rather than experience. This grassroots awakening is typical for many Swedish football clubs from that period.
That they chose the name Borås Fotbollslag shows a local pride from the start. The name change in 1906 to IF Elfsborg likely reflects a desire for a broader identity or perhaps a merger with other groups. Membership in the Swedish Sports Confederation the same year was an important step toward formal recognition within Swedish sports.
Today IF Elfsborg is an established Allsvenskan team with concrete goals. They sit in fourth place in the table with 31 points, the result of 8 wins, 7 draws and 4 losses. The team has scored 27 goals and conceded 19, giving a goal difference of +8. The recent WDWWW form shows a team in strong shape heading into the autumn finish.
Despite the positive development, they still trail league leaders Sirius by 11 points. The upcoming direct away match against Sirius on October 18th therefore becomes extra important. Fans can follow the final sprint on our fixtures page.
Understanding the origin helps put current performances in perspective. From 19 teenagers in 1904 to a top team in Allsvenskan in 2026 is a significant journey. The historical continuity is important for the club culture and identity.
This combination of history and present makes IF Elfsborg a unique association in Swedish football.
The future looks bright with a stable table position. A look at the standings confirms the team is in the top mix. The goal of reducing the 11-point gap to Sirius will require a continued strong effort during the autumn. The next match against the league leader on October 18th will be a direct opportunity to show what the team is made of.
