Press Release
For Immediate Release
8 October 2025
Federation of Irish Sport Welcomes Positive Commitments to Sport in Budget 2026
The Federation of Irish Sport has welcomed the commitments announced in Budget 2026 towards the ongoing development of sport and physical activity across Ireland.
The increased investment in core funding, high-performance programmes, and sports facility development represents a clear and positive signal of Ireland’s ambition to support and nurture sporting talent at every level — from grassroots community clubs to elite international competition.
Speaking following the Budget announcement, Federation CEO Mary O’Connor said:
“This Budget sends a strong message that sport, and physical activity remain a national priority. These targeted investments will allow the sector to build on momentum, while continuing to deliver opportunities for participation, inclusion, and excellence throughout Ireland.”
“These investments are not just numbers on a page. They represent opportunities — for children to join their first team, for athletes to chase international dreams, and for communities to thrive through sport. We look forward to working together to ensure every euro invested strengthens the foundations of Irish sport for generations to come.”
The Federation extends its sincere thanks to Minister Patrick O’Donovan and Minister of State Charlie McConalogue for their leadership, ongoing support, and commitment to recognising the unique role of sport and physical activity in Irish society.
“The Ministers’ support, both in public advocacy and in yesterday’s funding allocations, underscores the Government’s understanding that sport is not just about medals and trophies — it’s about wellbeing, community building, social cohesion, and economic contribution,” Mary O’Connor added.
Looking ahead, the Federation expressed its commitment to working closely with the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, Sport Ireland, National Governing Bodies, Local Sports Partnerships, and all funded organisations to ensure that this investment delivers real, measurable impact.
ENDS
For interview requests, please contact:
Michelle McCarthy
Operations Manager Federation of Irish Sport
email: michelle.mccarthy@irishsport.ie , mobile: 0860684925, website: www.irishsport.ie
Notes to Editors:
Key Investments Announced in Budget 2026 Include:
- €10.8 million in additional current funding for Sport Ireland, including:
- €2 million in increased core funding for National Governing Bodies of Sport and Local Sports Partnerships
- €500,000 to support Sport Ireland’s work on sports legacy programmes and events
- €1.5 million increase in High Performance funding, as part of preparations for Los Angeles 2028, in line with Programme for Government commitments
- €500,000 investment in a grassroots golf participation programme, forming part of the legacy strategy for major international golf events, including the Ryder Cup.
- National Velodrome and Badminton Centre to commence construction.
- Large-Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) annual allocation increased by €18.7m, to support the development of world-class sports facilities nationwide.
- Targeted funding for specific sports and athlete support, including:
- GAA:
- €250,000 in enhanced core funding
- Just under €750,000 to expand hurling in non-traditional areas.
- €1.6 million in additional support for inter-county players
- IRFU:
- €250,000 in enhanced core funding
- €500,000 to support the development of high-performance pathways for women rugby players.
- FAI:
- €3 million to support the development of League of Ireland football academies.
- GAA:
About the Federation of Irish Sport
The Federation of Irish Sport was established in April 2002 by Ireland’s national sporting organisations to provide leadership, coordination, and advocacy on key issues, representing their interests to the government and relevant agencies. Now in its 23rd year, the Federation represents over 110 National Governing Bodies (NGBs) and Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs), representing more than 13,000 sports clubs across Ireland.
The Federation’s mission is to empower its members to maximise the impact of sport, recreation, and physical activity for the benefit of society. Sport is not only essential for Ireland’s health and wellbeing but also contributes significantly to the economy, education, tourism, and the nation’s global reputation.