Falkirk finished the season in twelfth place and were relegated to the Scottish First Division after five years in the SPL.

Falkirk finished as runners-up in the 2009 Scottish Cup Final and qualified for the UEFA Europa League.

Falkirk were relegated to the Scottish First Division for the first time since 2005 after a 0–0 draw with Kilmarnock on the final day of the season.

Kilmarnock were also at threat of being relegated and the winner of the match at Rugby Park would have remained in the SPL.

Falkirk began the season under the management of Eddie May who had been appointed in June 2009 after several years of coaching in the youth set-up at the club.