With the new knockout-style system now firmly in place, counties face a relentless route to Sam Maguire — with no room for slow starts.

All-Ireland SFC 2026 – Round 1 Draw

The opening round sees provincial finalists handed home advantage against the next-best ranked teams based on league standings.

Round 1 Fixtures:

• Dublin v Louth
• Cork v Meath
• Monaghan v Mayo
• Westmeath v Cavan
• Kerry v Donegal
• Galway v Kildare
• Armagh v Derry
• Roscommon v Tyrone

These ties promise serious intrigue, with several heavyweight clashes that could shape the championship early.

Key Dates for Provincial Finals

Before Round 1 action begins, the remaining provincial finals will be played across two weekends:

• Munster & Connacht Finals: 23–24 May
• Leinster & Ulster Finals: 30–31 May

These results will confirm the final seedings heading into the All-Ireland series.

All-Ireland SFC Format Explained (2026)

The structure is designed to reward winners while still giving teams a second chance — but only just.

Round 1

• 16 teams compete (8 provincial finalists + 8 next-best league teams)
• Provincial finalists play at home
• Winners advance to Round 2A
• Losers drop to Round 2B

Round 2A (Winners Path)

• 8 Round 1 winners face each other
• 4 winners go straight to the All-Ireland quarter-finals
• Draw avoids repeat provincial final pairings
• First team drawn gets home advantage

Round 2B (Backdoor Survival)

• 8 Round 1 losers face off
• 4 teams eliminated from the championship
• 4 winners move on to Round 3
• Same draw restrictions apply

Round 3 (Last Chance Saloon)

• 4 Round 2A losers vs 4 Round 2B winners
• Home venues decided by draw
• Avoid repeat provincial final pairings and, where possible, Round 1 rematches
• 4 winners qualify for the quarter-finals

Quarter-Finals

• 4 Round 2A winners vs 4 Round 3 winners
• Straight knockout from here to the All-Ireland Final

What This Format Means

This structure is brutally simple:

• Win early → shorter route to the quarter-finals
• Lose once → still alive
• Lose twice → you’re out

There’s pressure from Day 1, and counties can’t afford to ease into the championship anymore.

For teams like Kerry, Dublin, Galway and Armagh, the expectation is clear — push straight through Round 2A and avoid the chaos of the backdoor.

For others, Round 2B and Round 3 become a dogfight just to stay alive.

Big Talking Points from the Draw

• Kerry v Donegal is the standout tie — a serious early test for both
• Galway v Kildare offers a tricky opener for the Connacht champions
• Roscommon v Tyrone could be one of the most competitive games of the round
• Dublin v Louth renews a growing Leinster rivalry

Final Word

There’s no soft entry point anymore. The All-Ireland series has become a sprint, not a marathon.

Counties either hit the ground running — or spend the summer chasing survival.

And that’s exactly how the GAA want it.

The post All-Ireland Senior Football Championship 2026: Draw, Fixtures, Dates and Full Format Explained appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

At just 25, Pike could achieve something even the legendary Aidan O’Brien did not—win a Classic at a younger age. O’Brien was 28 when he landed his first Guineas with King Of Kings in 1998. Pike, who only received his licence from the British Horseracing Authority in December 2025, now has a chance to become the youngest Classic-winning trainer in modern times.

There is history behind him too. Pike trains out of Danebury Place in Hampshire, a yard steeped in tradition. It produced three 2000 Guineas winners in the 19th century under John Barham Day—Grey Momus (1838), Crucifix (1840) and The Ugly Buck (1844).

“There’s a great buzz around the yard this week,” Pike said during a Jockey Club media call. “I haven’t really slept—just excitement more than nerves. I’m sure those will come closer to Saturday.”

A Horse on the Rise

Padraig Dawn has rapidly climbed the ranks. A son of Saxon Warrior, the colt is out of Termagant, a Group One winner of the Moyglare Stud Stakes.

Bought for 30,000 guineas as a foal, he made an immediate impression by winning on debut over seven furlongs at Southwell in February. He followed that with a strong second—beaten just a neck—in the Listed Burradon Stakes at Newcastle on Good Friday.

“That Newcastle run is when I realised we might have something special,” Pike admitted. “Everything went wrong for him, but the way he finished… I was very, very happy. He’s improved again since.”

Connections were quick to act, paying £30,000 to supplement the colt into Saturday’s Classic. Currently priced at 33-1 by sponsors Betfred, a top-four finish would recoup that fee.

‘A Pinch Me Moment’

For Pike, Saturday is about more than just results—it’s about belonging at the top table.

“To be in the parade ring with Aidan O’Brien and Charlie Appleby is a privilege,” he said. “They’re the people everyone looks up to. Just being there is a pinch-me moment.”

Despite his youth, Pike is not lacking confidence.

“I’d like to sit in the first four—we’re capable of that. Obviously, everyone wants to win.”

Built for the Big Stage

Pike believes a strong mile—or even stepping up to 10 furlongs—will bring out the best in his colt.

“He’s so laid back, nothing bothers him. If you could design a racehorse’s temperament, it would be him,” Pike said. “He’s professional, takes everything in his stride, and even has his routine—half eleven every day he’s asleep waiting for lunch.”

Although both runs have come on the All-Weather, Pike has no concerns about switching to turf.

“We’ve done plenty on grass at home. If anything, he looks more of a turf horse.”

Strong Team Behind the Scenes

Regular rider Eddie Greatrex takes the mount, continuing a long-standing relationship with Pike.

“We’ve known each other years, going back to riding out together at Richard Hannon’s. We’re honest with each other—no sugarcoating—and that helps.”

Pike’s rise has been swift. After a short riding career, he seized the opportunity to train at just 24, backed by owner Gary Gillies.

“If you’re given a chance like that, you have to take it. If I’d said it was too soon, it might never have come again.”

Youth Driving the Game Forward

Now firmly established at Danebury Place, Pike is beginning to attract new owners and build momentum.

“We’ve got some nice horses coming through, and things are starting to pick up. It’s exciting.”

He also believes his emergence is part of a broader positive trend in racing.

“Youth in the game can only be a good thing. A few new faces—it freshens everything up.”

History Beckons

Whether Padraig Dawn can deliver on Saturday remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Charlie Pike has already shaken up the narrative.

And if the 25-year-old can pull off a Guineas shock, he won’t just win a Classic—he’ll rewrite the record books.

The post 25-Year-Old Charlie Pike Targets Historic Guineas Win to Eclipse Aidan O’Brien Milestone appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

It’s a tight spread for a knockout game, but the team news from Richie Murphy suggests Ulster are going all-in to get the job done on home soil.

Big Guns Return at the Right Time

There are 14 changes from last week’s URC outing, which tells you everything about where Ulster’s focus has been. This is close to full strength—and it shows.

Captain Iain Henderson returns to lead the side, partnering Cormac Izuchukwu in the second row. More importantly, the back row gets a serious lift with the return of Nick Timoney from injury, alongside David McCann and Juarno Augustus.

That trio gives Ulster real bite at the breakdown and ball-carrying power—something they’ve lacked at times this season.

Up front, Tom Stewart anchors the front row between Sam Crean and Tom O’Toole. It’s a solid unit, but it will need to stand up physically against a typically abrasive Exeter pack.

Midfield Power and Back Three Threat

Ulster’s strength arguably lies in their midfield. Stuart McCloskey is back pulling the strings at 12, bringing his usual mix of direct running and distribution. Alongside him, Jude Postlethwaite continues to grow into the role at 13.

Out wide, Jacob Stockdale returns on the left, with Zac Ward—Ulster’s leading try-scorer this season—on the right. Add in Michael Lowry at 15, and there’s plenty of attacking spark if Ulster can get quick ball.

The half-back pairing of Nathan Doak and Jack Murphy will be key. Doak’s control and kicking game, in particular, could decide whether Ulster play this in the right areas.

Bench Impact Could Be Decisive

Murphy has gone with a 5:3 split on the bench, signalling a clear intent to win the physical battle late on.

Eric O’Sullivan and Tom McAllister provide fresh legs in the front row, while Bryn Ward adds energy in the back row.

In the backs, Jake Flannery and Ethan McIlroy offer versatility and attacking threat if the game opens up.

In tight knockout matches, that depth often proves the difference—and Ulster look well covered.

The Betting Angle: Is -2 Too Low?

A -2 handicap is about as tight as it gets. It’s essentially asking one question: do Ulster win the match?

Given the return of key players, home advantage, and Exeter’s patchy away form, the line looks slightly on the conservative side.

That said, semi-finals are rarely straightforward. Exeter will bring physicality, set-piece pressure, and enough experience to keep this close if Ulster don’t start well.

The biggest risk for Ulster is discipline and game management. If they give Exeter territory or easy points, this turns into a dogfight quickly.

Verdict

Ulster have named a team capable of winning this—and more importantly, one built for knockout rugby.

With Henderson leading, Timoney back, and McCloskey carrying in midfield, they should have enough control and power to edge it.

It won’t be pretty, and it won’t be comfortable—but it doesn’t need to be.

Prediction: Ulster to cover -2
Suggested Score: Ulster 24–18 Exeter Chiefs

The post Ulster Backed to Edge Exeter to Reach in Challenge Cup Semi-Final appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Head Coach Leo Cullen has named a powerful side, bolstered by the return of Andrew Porter to the starting front row. His presence alongside Dan Sheehan and Thomas Clarkson adds serious ballast to a Leinster pack that already looks primed to dominate.

Power Pack Set to Lay the Platform

Leinster’s engine room features Joe McCarthy and James Ryan in the second row, while the back row of Jack Conan, Josh van der Flier and captain Caelan Doris brings a blend of physicality and relentless work rate.

On paper—and more importantly in recent performances—this is a pack capable of overwhelming Toulon at set-piece and in open play. If Leinster gain early dominance at scrum and breakdown, that -11 line starts to look far less daunting.

Backline Firepower to Punish

Behind the pack, Leinster have a mix of control and cutting edge. Jamison Gibson-Park and Harry Byrne will look to dictate tempo, while the midfield pairing of Robbie Henshaw and Garry Ringrose offers both defensive solidity and attacking threat.

Out wide, the inclusion of Rieko Ioane adds real X-factor. Combined with Tommy O’Brien and the ever-reliable Hugo Keenan at 15, Leinster have the pace and precision to stretch Toulon’s defence.

Bench Impact Could Swing It

Leinster’s replacements could prove just as important in covering the spread. Rónan Kelleher, Rabah Slimani and Scott Penny bring serious impact late on, while Sam Prendergast offers a different attacking dimension if introduced.

That depth matters. Big handicaps are often covered in the final quarter—and Leinster have the squad to keep the intensity high right through to the 80th minute.

The Betting Angle: Can Leinster Cover -11?

Let’s not dress it up—-11 is a big number at semi-final level. But context matters.

Leinster are at home, playing in front of a packed Aviva Stadium, and have consistently shown they can put top sides away when they hit their stride. Toulon, while dangerous, have been less convincing away from home and may struggle to live with Leinster’s tempo for the full match.

If Leinster start fast and convert early dominance into points, this could get away from Toulon quickly. The key risk is a tight first half—if Toulon hang around, covering becomes a grind.

Verdict

Leinster -11 looks aggressive—but justified.

With Porter back, a dominant pack, and a bench capable of finishing strong, Leinster have the tools to win this by 12–18 points if they play to their level.

Prediction: Leinster to cover -11
Suggested Score: Leinster 31–17 Toulon

The post Leinster Backed to Cover -11 Handicap as Porter Returns for Champions Cup Semi-Final Clash with Toulon appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

CLICK FOR LIVE GAA SCORES

CLICK FOR List of Live GAA Matches on Clubber Here’s a full list of this week’s fixtures from the image, grouped by county:

The post List of live GAA matches on Sky Sports, TG4, GAA+ & RTE appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The win also completed a Grade 1 double for jockey Paul Townend and trainer Willie Mullins, the fourth winner of the day for the Closutton handler.

Queen of the two-milers

𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 is a class apart in the @Boodles Champion Hurdle.@punchestownrace pic.twitter.com/KuTdylMNws

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) May 1, 2026

Lossiemouth tracked the leaders throughout the two-mile championship race before taking second place on entering the home straight. As the crowd cheered from the packed Punchestown stands, the Rich Ricci-owned mare made her move.

She soon quickened away from the field before staying on impressively for a five-length victory over the 2025 Cheltenham Champion Hurdler Golden Ace (11/1), with Lorcan Williams in the saddle.

”She has it all.”

Paul Townend gives us his verdict on another special performance from Lossiemouth pic.twitter.com/CWJTa9CHE5

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) May 1, 2026

Wilful, trained in England by Jonjo and A.J. O’Neill, who had lead or disputed the lead in the earlier stages of the race, kept on one-paced for third, eight lengths behind the runner-up.

The post Lossiemouth gives Mullins & Townend Punchestown Champion Hurdle win appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Competing in the Alanna Homes Champion Novice Hurdle, the Audrey and Greg Turley-owned grey was the first part of a Grade 1 double on the day for trainer Willie Mullins and stable jockey Paul Townend.

CLINGS ON

Turners Novices’ Hurdle winner King Rasko Grey scrapes home from the fast-finishing Lord Byron in the Grade 1 Champion Novice Hurdle @punchestownrace. @WillieMullinsNH | @PTownend pic.twitter.com/9HfEidpfwS

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) May 1, 2026

The French-bred six-year-old gelding held off the late challenge of British-trained Lord Byron as the Faye Bramley-handled son of Camelot continued to close the gap with the line approaching.

As they hit the winning post, King Rasko Grey had a head advantage over the Harry Cobden-ridden four-year-old.

Kiely’s Place (10/1), also representing the winning handler, took third under the trainer’s son, Patrick.

The post King Rasko Grey & Paul Townend win Grade 1 Alanna Homes Champion Novice Hurdle appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The weeks leading up to the race are critical, as performances, announcements, and market reactions continue to influence perceptions of each contender.

For horse racing enthusiasts, understanding how this buildup affects the odds provides valuable insight into how the second leg of the Triple Crown is shaping up this year.

How the Road to Laurel Park Shapes Early Odds

The journey to the Preakness begins long before the horses arrive at Laurel Park, with graded stakes races forming the foundation of early odds.

Performances in key prep races such as the Arkansas Derby and the Federico Tesio Stakes provide measurable indicators of form, class, and readiness. These races serve as the first major benchmarks that oddsmakers use to construct the initial Preakness odds board.

Standout victories in these events often establish an early hierarchy among contenders. Horses that dominate their prep races typically receive shorter prices, reflecting strong market confidence in their ability to carry that form forward. Meanwhile, less consistent runners are priced more cautiously, highlighting the importance of recent performance data.

Tracking Preakness Stakes odds today 2026 during this phase reveals how quickly perceptions can form. Tangible results shape early odds, but those odds also reflect evolving narratives as analysts and bettors interpret each prep race outcome and other factors.

Kentucky Derby Fallout and Its Odds Consequences

The Kentucky Derby represents a turning point for the Preakness odds market, with its results triggering immediate adjustments across the board. The Derby winner typically sees a significant shift in positioning, as attention turns toward the possibility of continuing success in the Triple Crown series. This heightened focus often translates into shorter odds in early Preakness projections.

Runner-up performances and strong finishes from other contenders also influence market recalibration. Horses that show resilience or encounter challenging race conditions may receive renewed attention, prompting adjustments in their projected standing. Conversely, highly regarded entrants who underperform may see their odds drift as confidence recalibrates.

Decisions by connections play an equally important role during this period. Not all Derby participants go on to the Preakness, and announcements about participation can cause rapid changes in the odds landscape. This combination of performance analysis and strategic planning ensures that the post-Derby phase remains one of the most dynamic periods in shaping the field.

Trainer and Owner Statements Influence Market Movement

Public statements from trainers and ownership groups are among the most influential factors affecting Preakness odds in the buildup to the race. When a prominent trainer confirms a horse’s intention to run, it often triggers immediate adjustments, reflecting increased certainty around field composition. These declarations provide clarity in an otherwise fluid environment.

Conversely, uncertainty or hesitation from connections can lead to fluctuating odds. Horses without confirmed plans may see their positions shift as the market responds to speculation. This dynamic underscores the importance of timing, as even a single announcement can ripple across the entire odds board.

Following credible racing media, interviews, and official stable updates offers valuable insight into these developments. These sources often provide early indications of which horses are being targeted for the Preakness. As a result, staying informed about the trainer’s and owner’s intentions helps build a clearer picture of how the race is likely to unfold.

How New Shooter Buzz Is Influencing the Odds Board

New shooter contenders, horses that bypass the Kentucky Derby, continue to generate significant attention in the Preakness buildup. Their absence from the Kentucky Derby introduces an element of uncertainty that both challenges and reshapes the odds market. Without direct comparison to Derby runners, these horses are more difficult to evaluate.

This uncertainty often leads to wider odds ranges, as oddsmakers balance recent performances against unknown variables. Freshness is frequently cited as an advantage, particularly in a race that follows the demanding conditions of the Derby. This factor can elevate interest in new shooters, prompting noticeable shifts in the market.

As buzz around these contenders grows, their presence can influence perceptions of the entire field. Their inclusion adds complexity to the race narrative, creating opportunities for unexpected outcomes. For enthusiasts tracking the odds, new shooters are among the most dynamic elements in the evolving Preakness landscape.

What the Current Odds Trajectory Tells Bettors

The trajectory of Preakness odds provides a comprehensive view of how the race is unfolding as new information emerges. Each phase of the buildup, prep races, Derby results, trainer declarations, and new shooter developments, contributes to a layered understanding of the field. Observing how these factors interact provides valuable context.

Consistent support for certain horses often indicates sustained confidence in their prospects, while fluctuating odds can highlight uncertainty or changing perceptions. These movements reflect the collective assessment of performance data, preparation, and strategic decisions made by connections.

By following the progression of the odds from early projections to the days leading up to the race, enthusiasts can gain a clearer sense of which contenders are being taken most seriously. This evolving picture ultimately reflects how the market interprets the available information as the Preakness approaches.

A Changing Landscape Ahead of Race Day

As the 2026 Preakness Stakes draws closer, the buildup continues to shape expectations in meaningful ways. With the race set at Laurel Park and the final field still to be confirmed, the evolving odds reflect a dynamic interplay of performance, preparation, and public perception. Each development, from standout prep races to last-minute trainer declarations, adds another layer to the narrative surrounding the contenders.

For horse racing enthusiasts, tracking these changes offers a deeper understanding of how the race is being evaluated.

From early prep races like the Arkansas Derby to late-stage announcements about Derby participants and new shooters, as well as late scratches or weather shifts, can dramatically alter market dynamics right up until post time.

Every factor contributes to the final outlook. As race day approaches, the shifting odds provide a clear window into the market’s view of the field. Bettors who follow this trajectory gain valuable insight into which horses carry genuine momentum and which narratives are truly driving wagering action.

The post How the Build-Up to the Race Is Impacting the 2026 Preakness Stakes Odds appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

New GAA Rules Explained

CLICK HERE FOR LIVE GAA SCORES AND COMMENTARY

GAA LEAGUE Tables

Saturday 2 May

Ulster SFC semi-final
Derry v Monaghan, Box-It Athletic Grounds, 5pm – GAA+

Leinster SFC semi-final
Louth v Dublin, Laois Hire O’Moore Park, 7pm – GAA+

Ulster MFC Round 2
Monaghan v Tyrone, Páirc Grattan, Inniskeen, 12pm
Derry v Cavan, Find Insurance Owenbeg, 12pm

Ulster MFC Qualifiers Round 2
Armagh v Fermanagh, Crossmaglen, 12pm
Donegal v Down, Donegal CoE, 12pm

Leinster MHC – Phase 2 Round 3
Laois v Westmeath, Laois Hire O’Moore Park, 12pm
Wexford v Kilkenny, Chadwicks Wexford Park, 2pm
Dublin v Wexford, Parnell Park, 2pm

Sunday 3 May

Leinster SFC semi-final
Kildare v Westmeath, Glenisk O’Connor Park, 2pm – GAA+

Munster SHC Round 3
Clare v Limerick, Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg, 2pm – RTE

Ulster SFC semi-final
Armagh v Down, Clones, 4pm – RTE

Ladies Connacht SFC final
Galway v Mayo, Páirc Seán Mac Diarmada, 3pm – TG4

Ladies Leinster SFC
Dublin v Kildare, Parnell Park, 2pm

Ladies Munster SFC
Cork v Waterford, Páirc Ui Rinn, 2pm
Tipperary v Kerry, Clonmel Sportsfield, 2pm

Ladies Ulster SFC
Donegal v Tyrone, Lifford, 2pm – TG4

Monday 4 May

Munster MFC Phase 2 round 2
Kerry v Cork, Austin Stack Park, 7pm
Waterford v Clare, Lemybrien, 7pm

Leinster U20HC quarter-finals
Laois v Wexford, Laois Hire O’Moore Park, 2pm
Kilkenny v Offaly, UPMC Nowlan Park, 2pm
Tuesday 5 May

Leinster MFC quarter-finals
Westmeath v Kildare, TEG Cusack Park, 6.30pm
Offaly v Meath, Glenisk O’Connor Park, 6.30pm

Wednesday 6 May

Leinster U20FC final
Louth v Kildare, Parnell Park, 7.30pm

Munster U20HC semi-final
Cork v Clare, SuperValu Pairc Ui Chaoimh, 7.35pm

Friday 8 May

Munster MHC Round 5
Cork v Limerick, Pairc Ui Rinn, 7pm
Waterford v Tipperary, Fraher Field, 7pm

Connacht MFC final
Galway v Roscommon, Tuam, 7pm

Saturday 9 May

Munster SHC Round 3
Waterford v Cork, Azzurri Walsh Park, 6pm

Leinster SHC Round 3
Kildare v Galway, Cedral St Conleth’s Park, 3.30pm
Wexford v Dublin, Chadwicks Wexford Park, 4pm – RTE

Tailteann Cup Round 1
Clare v Offaly, Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chísóg, 4pm
Wexford v Limerick, Chadwicks Wexford Park, 6pm

Joe McDonagh Cup
Down v Carlow, McKenna Park, 1pm
Westmeath v Laois, TEG Cusack Park, 5pm

Christy Ring Cup
Donegal v Roscommon, O’Donnell Park, 7pm
Meath v Derry, Trim, 1pm
Kerry v Wicklow, Austin Stack Park, Tralee, 1pm

Nickey Rackard Cup
Armagh v Louth, BOX-IT Athletic Grounds, 2pm
Tyrone v Fermanagh, Tyrone CoE, 2pm
Mayo v Sligo, Hastings Insurance MacHale Park, 2pm

Lory Meagher Cup
Monaghan v Lancashire, Páirc Grattan, Inniskeen, 1pm
Cavan v Longford, Kingspan Breffni, 2pm
Leitrim v Warwickshire, Páirc Seán MacDiarmada, 2pm

All-Ireland U20FC semi-finals (played 9/10 May)
Roscommon v Kerry, TBC, TBC
Tyrone v Louth or Kildare, TBC, TBC

Ulster MFC quarter-finals
Sunday 10 May

Munster SFC final
Kerry v Cork, Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney, 1.45pm – RTE

Connacht SFC final
Roscommon v Galway, Dr Hyde Park, 4.15pm – RTE

Leinster SHC Round 3
Offaly v Kilkenny, Glenisk O’Connor Park, 3pm

Tailteann Cup Round 1
Sligo v Tipperary, Markievicz Park, 12.45pm
Carlow v Antrim, Netwatch Cullen Park, 1.30pm
Laois v Wicklow, Laois Hire O’Moore Park, 2pm – GAA+
Waterford v London, Cappoquin Logistics Fraher Field, 2pm
Fermanagh v Longford, Brewster Park, 3pm

Joe McDonagh Cup
London v Antrim, McGovern Park, Ruislip, 1pm
Monday 11 May

Munster MFC Phase 2 round 3
Cork v Waterford, Pairc Ui Rinn, 7pm
Kerry v Clare, Austin Stack Park, 7pm
Tuesday 12 May

Leinster MFC semi-finals
Louth v TBC, TBC, 7.30pm
Dublin v TBC, TBC, 7.30pm
Wednesday 13 May

Munster U20HC final
Tipperary v Cork or Clare, TBC, 7.35pm
Friday 15 May

Munster MHC final
Tipperary v TBC, TBC, TBC

Saturday 16 May

Munster SHC Round 4
Tipperary v Clare, FBD Semple Stadium, 7pm

Leinster SHC Round 4
Galway v Dublin, Pearse Stadium, 4.30pm
Kilkenny v Kildare, UPMC Nowlan Park, 6pm
Offaly v Wexford, Glenisk O’Connor Park, 6pm

Tailteann Cup Round 1
Westmeath/Down/Cavan v Leitrim, TBC

Joe McDonagh Cup
Carlow v London, Netwatch Cullen Park, Carlow, 1pm
Antrim v Westmeath, Corrigan Park (TBC), TBC
Laois v Down, Laois Hire O’Moore Park, TBC

Christy Ring Cup
Derry v Kerry, Find Insurance Celtic Park, Derry, TBC
Donegal v Meath, O’Donnell Park, Letterkenny, TBC
Wicklow v Roscommon, Echelon Park, Aughrim, TBC

Nickey Rackard Cup
Louth v Mayo, GAA Training Centre, Darver, TBC
Sligo v Fermanagh, Markievicz Park, TBC
Tyrone v Armagh, Tyrone CoE, Garvaghey, TBC

Lory Meagher Cup
Lancashire v Warwickshire, Páirc na hÉireann, Birmingham, TBC
Longford v Monaghan, Glennon Brothers Pearse Park, TBC
Leitrim v Cavan, Páirc Seán MacDiarmada, TBC

All-Ireland U20FC final (played between 16/17 May)
Sunday 17 May

Ulster SFC final
Derry or Monaghan v Armagh or Down, Clones, 4.15pm – RTE

Leinster SFC final
Dublin or Louth v Kildare or Westmeath, Páirc an Chrócaigh, 2pm – RTE

Munster SHC Round 4
Limerick v Waterford, TUS Gaelic Grounds, 3pm
Monday 18 May

Munster MFC final
Friday 22 May

Leinster MFC final
TBC v TBC, TBC, 7.30pm

Saturday 23 May

Sam Maguire Cup Round 1

Tailteann Cup Round 2A & 2B

Sunday 24 May

Munster SHC Round 5
Cork v Clare, SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, 4pm
Limerick v Tipperary, TUS Gaelic Grounds, 4pm

Leinster SHC Round 5
Dublin v Kilkenny, Parnell Park, 2pm
Kildare v Offaly, Cedral St Conleth’s Park, Newbridge, 2pm
Wexford v Galway, Chadwicks Wexford Park, 2pm

Joe McDonagh Cup
Antrim v Carlow, Corrigan Park (TBC), 1pm
Down v Westmeath, McKenna Park, Ballycran, 1pm
London v Laois, McGovern Park, Ruislip, 1pm

Saturday 30 May

Sam Maguire Cup Round 1

All-Ireland U20HC final
Saturday 6th June

Leinster SHC final

Joe McDonagh Cup final

Tailteann Cup Round 3

Sunday 7 June

Munster SHC final
Munster Senior Hurling Final, Venue TBC, 2pm

Saturday 13th-Sunday 14th

Sam Maguire Cup Round 2A & 2B

All-Ireland SHC preliminary quarter-final

Tailteann Cup quarter-finals

Saturday 20th-Sunday 21st

Sam Maguire Cup Round 3

Tailteann Cup semi-finals

All-Ireland SHC quarter-finals

Saturday 27th-Sunday 28th

All-Ireland SFC quarter-finals

July

Saturday 4th: All-Ireland SHC semi-final (Leinster winner v quarter-final winner)

Sunday 5th: All-Ireland SHC semi-final (Munster winner v quarter-final winner)

Saturday 11th-Sunday 12th: All-Ireland SFC semi-finals; Tailteann Cup final (Saturday)

Sunday 19th: All-Ireland SHC final

Sunday 26th: All-Ireland SFC final

August

Saturday 1st: All-Ireland SHC final replay date

Saturday 8th: All-Ireland SFC final replay

The post GAA Fixtures 2026 – Munster & Leinster Hurling & Gaelic Football appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The 11-year-old son of Sholokhov delighted the thousands who descended on the County Kildare venue on Thursday as he claimed his 11 career success over jumps.

Bob Olinger lands the @Ladbrokes Champion Stayers' Hurdle pic.twitter.com/n3ATPJ6cSU

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) April 30, 2026

Ridden by jockeys’ title-chasing Darragh O’Keeffe, who rode a treble on the third day of the Festival to reduce the deficit between championship leader Jack Kennedy and himself to three, rode in the Robcour colours aboard Bob Olinger.

The Henry de Bromhead star received a tremendous reception from the crowd when he entered the winner’s enclosure a lap of the parade ring to applause from the crowd.

"He read the script."

Bob Olinger bows out with victory at Punchestown. Lovely stuff with owner @BrianAcheson pic.twitter.com/zmkOvsFgD4

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) April 30, 2026

Jimmy Du Seuil (9/1), trained by Willie Mullins and Paul Townend, took the runner-up position, three-quarters-of-one length behind the winner.

Teahupoo, in the same ownership as the winner, but trained in County Meath by Gordon Elliott and ridden by Jack Kennedy took third, three-and-a-half lengths further back, on ground that likely wasn’t ideal for him.

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