Jun 25, 2026
Take a look back at our Irish Sport Industry Awards and relive the excitement, featuring insights on sport as a global soft power from key ministers and a celebration of innovators, inclusivity, and sustainability. The highlights video compiled by our AV and Media Production Partners MWX Media, capture the lively atmosphere on the night as key stakeholders in sport gathered for this unique celebration.
Special guest speakers on the night included a keynote address from Minister for Sport and Postal Policy, Minister Charlie McConalogue TD and a fireside chat with Minister for International Development and Diaspora, Minister Neale Richmond TD on “Sport as Ireland’s Global Soft Power”.
Jun 25, 2026
The Federation was privileged to attend a Sports Diplomacy panel discussion hosted by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee, as part of the annual Ireland Wales Forum, with special guest Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth, with closing remarks from Minister for Sport and Postal Policy, Charlie McConalogue.
Chaired by journalist Sinéad O’Carroll, the panel explored the theme “Ireland and Wales – Global Ambitions and Sports Diplomacy.” It was interesting to hear the various insights from a high level group of speakers, including Noel Mooney, CEO of the Football Association of Wales; Tommy Bowe, former Ireland international and Ospreys, Ulster and Ireland player; Linda Hoey, Ryder Cup 2027 Programme Manager and formerly of World Rugby; and Dr. Helen Williams, Chair of Wales Netball and lecturer at Swansea University.
Held in the stunning Iveagh House, the discussion highlighted the unique role sport plays as a powerful tool of diplomacy. It was inspiring to hear the ministers and guest speakers emphasise how sport enables nations to showcase their values, strengthen cultural identity, and build meaningful international relationships.
Both Ireland’s International Sports Diplomacy Strategy and Wales’ International Strategy recognise the power of sport to enhance a nation’s global profile, strengthen commercial and cultural ties, and deepen connections with diaspora communities around the world.
Ireland will play host to three major international sporting events from 2027-2030 in golf, soccer and cricket. Underpinning the Government’s confidence and commitment to the recently launched International Sports Diplomacy Strategy – Raising the bar on Ireland’s global ambition.
FIS Head of Commercial and Marketing Clare Louise O’Donoghue with panel speaker Linda Hoey 2027 Ryder Cup Progamme Manager and member of the FIS Commerical and Communications Committee.
Jun 11, 2026
Pictured above Fine Gael representatives with Olympians Daniel Wiffen, Gráinne Walsh, Paralympian Colin Judge and members of the FIS Team.
Sport is at the heart of Ireland’s culture, communities, and national identity. As discussions begin ahead of Budget 2027, the Federation of Irish Sport continues to advocate for investment in a sector that delivers social, economic and health benefits across every corner of the country.
Last night, hosted by Senator Ní Chuilinn, we were proud to welcome Olympians Daniel Wiffen and Gráinne Walsh, alongside Paralympian Colin Judge, to Leinster House. Their achievements on the world stage showcase the power of Irish sport to unite, inspire and create national pride.
The event highlighted the importance of supporting our high-performance athletes while also recognising the volunteers, coaches, administrators and grassroots participants who are the foundation of sport in Ireland.
Thank you to all the Ministers, Deputies and Senators who joined us and reaffirmed their support for Irish sport. Together, we can ensure sport continues to enrich lives, strengthen communities and inspire future generations.
Olympic Champion Daniel Wiffen also received a warm welcome during a visit to the viewing gallery from the Ceann Comhairle.
Moments like these are a reminder of the unique power of sport to bring people together. The achievements of our athletes on the international stage inspire pride across the country, lift our spirits, and create a shared sense of joy that resonates far beyond the field of play.
Ireland celebrates its sporting heroes because their success belongs to all of us.
Jun 8, 2026
photo credit: irishrugby.ie
The Federation of Irish Sport would like to extend it’s deepest sympathies on the passing of Philip Browne, former Chief Executive of the IRFU.
Philip’s commitment to Irish Sport, the growth and development of Irish Rugby was immense and will have a long lasting impact on the Irish sporting landscape. His tenure of the IRFU spanned almost 30 years and he was instrumental in the redevelopment of the Aviva Stadium.
Our condolences to his family, friends and many colleagues in Sport.
May He Rest in Peace.
Jun 4, 2026
For many Irish sport’s governing bodies, membership fees, sponsorship income, competition entry fees, and education programmes form the backbone of annual revenue. However, from accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2026, the revised Section 23 of FRS 102 will introduce a fundamentally different approach to how much of that income can be recognised and, crucially, when it can be recognised.
OSK is the official Audit and Accounting partner of the Federation of Irish Sport (FIS) and the preferred supplier of these services to the Federation’s members. Deirdre McDermott Audit Partner – OSK has brought the below key points to our attention and also shared a detailed article via the link below on this matter. I am sharing it with you for your information and if you need advice on the above changes or in relation OSK’s audit and accountancy services please contact us today for a direct introduction.
For Irish National Governing Bodies (NGBs), sporting charities, and representative associations with a 31 December year-end, the first financial statements impacted will be those for the year ending 31 December 2026. Organisations should begin reviewing contracts, membership arrangements, and sponsorship agreements now to understand where changes may be required and to avoid unexpected adjustments during the audit process.
Key Changes
- Revised Section 23 of FRS 102 applies to accounting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2026.
- The new rules focus on when services are delivered rather than when cash is received.
- Membership subscriptions, affiliation fees and sponsorship agreements are likely to require the greatest attention.
- Many organisations may see increased deferred income balances at year-end.
- Early contract reviews during 2026 can reduce audit issues and unexpected accounting adjustments.
Why Does This Matter?
Many sports organisations receive income from a variety of sources, including:
- Membership subscriptions
- Club affiliation fees
- Competition entry fees
- Sponsorship agreements
- Commercial partnerships
- Coach education programmes
- Event income
- Broadcasting rights
- Licensing arrangements
See below link for article and attached graphic for article.
New Revenue Recognition Rules Under FRS 102: What Irish Sports Governing Bodies Need to Know for 31 December 2026
https://www.osk.ie/blog/posts/new-revenue-recognition-rules-under-frs-102-what-irish-sports-governing-bodies-need-to-know-for-31-december-2026/
May 25, 2026
Register Today!
Following on from our 2026 Annual Leaders Forum panel discussion earlier this year on “Foundations as a Path to Structural Resilience”, together with our Partners 2into3 and FIS members Irish Sailing Association we will be exploring the topic of Foundations further and the potential that lies overseas in “Unlocking US Philanthropy for Irish Sport”.
❓Could the United States be a viable philanthropic market for Irish sporting organisations?
📆 Join 2into3 and FIS on Tuesday, 9 June at 12:00 PM for a webinar aimed at members considering how to broaden their philanthropic horizons. We will also have, Bridget Murphy, CFRE, Principal at Graham-Pelton, one of the most established fundraising consultancies in the US, as a guest speaker.
🪙 With over three decades of fundraising leadership and an appointed seat on the New Jersey Ireland Trade Commission, Bridget brings both deep US sector expertise and an understanding of the Irish context.
The session will cover:
→ How American philanthropy works and why it differs from Ireland.
→ The realities, costs, and structures behind US philanthropic engagement.
→ What Irish sporting bodies should consider before pursuing the US market.
→ The common pitfalls — and where genuine opportunity lies.
→ Case study: We’ll also be joined by James O’Callaghan from the Irish Sailing Association, sharing their own journey and experiences to learn from, followed by audience Q&A.
🔗You are invited to register now or please share the invitation with the relevant member of your team: https://lnkd.in/egZtQGqe
