IFK Mariestad was formed on the 18 December 1985 when the men's football section broke away from Mariestad Bois to form an independent club.

From its beginnings in Division 6 IFK have progressed slowly and followed their business plan with key objectives and milestones.

The club's goal has always been to become an established Division 3 team and in 1999 this target was achieved.

The club won Division 4 Västergötland Norra again in 2001 being undefeated throughout the season.

This time IFK spent two seasons in Division 3 Mellersta Götaland before relegation.