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Previewing the Vikings vs Steelers Week 4 Matchup in Dublin

For the first time in NFL history, a regular season game will be played in Ireland. The Minnesota Vikings will take on the Pittsburgh Steelers to kick off Sunday football in Week 4, September 28th at 9:30 am ET. This is the second time the NFL has hosted a game in the country, the first coming in 1997 when the Steelers and Chicago Bears played a preseason game.

The game will be held at Croke Park, the headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association and Ireland’s largest sporting stadium. It’s the home of hurling and Gaelic football finals, and has hosted major events like the 2003 Special Olympics and a 1996 college football game between Notre Dame and Navy.

The Steelers will serve as the home team for the historic match, with team president Art Rooney II’s deep family ties to Ireland — including roots in Newry, County Down and a father who served as the U.S. Ambassador to the country.

The Vikings famously won a game in the 2022 international series on a double doink missed field goal by Wil Lutz. This season, they return to international play again in Week 5 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to face the Cleveland Browns — a venue built specifically for NFL games. That stadium also hosts the Broncos v Jets in Week 6.

In total, six international games are scheduled in 2025:

  • Week 1: Chiefs vs Chargers in São Paulo, Brazil – Fri, Sept 5 at 8:00pm ET
  • Week 4: Vikings vs Steelers in Dublin, Ireland – Sun, Sept 28 at 9:30am ET
  • Week 5: Browns vs Vikings in London (Tottenham)
  • Week 6: Broncos vs Jets in London (Tottenham)
  • Week 7: Rams vs Jaguars in London (Wembley)
  • Week 10: Falcons vs Colts in Berlin, Germany (Olympic Stadium)
  • Week 11: Commanders vs Dolphins in Madrid, Spain (Bernabéu)

If you’re looking to bet on any international NFL games, odds and lines will be available closer to kickoff. In the meantime, Irish fans can check out some of the best casino bonuses in Ireland and wager on NFL futures, Gaelic games, soccer, rugby, and more.

Looking ahead, Melbourne, Australia will host the 2026 NFL season opener at the iconic MCG, with the Rams named as the home team.

By the end of this season, the NFL will have played 62 international games, with 2025 marking the debut of Dublin, Berlin, and Madrid on the global stage.

1-3 for Ireland in Friends of the Meadows Cup

Jordan Coyle and For Gold win the Friends of the Meadows Cup 1.50m. Credit: Spruce Meadows Media/Bart Onyszko.

Jordan Coyle and For Gold claimed another Irish victory in Canada in the early hours of the morning as they took the Friends of the Meadows Cup 1.50m

The Irish rider/horse combination were one of seven, from thirty-three competitors, to jump clear in the first round and advance to the jump-off.

The course built by FEI Course Designer Anderson Lima of Mexico featured 13 obstacles, and a total of 16 jumping efforts.

Aboard For Gold, Coyle triggered the finish line at 38.64 seconds, over two seconds faster than Mexican Patricio Pasquel who finished in second with a time of 40.75 seconds.

Ireland’s Conor Swail claimed the third podium spot with Qoreen Van ‘T Ruytershof, going clear in the jump-off round in 40.81 seconds.

Daniel Coyle and Farrel were seventh in 42.28 seconds, having eight faults in their jump-off round.

 

Matthew Sampson denies Irish in $500,000 AON Grand Prix

Britain's Matthew Sampson and Daniel win the AON Grand Prix. Credit: Spruce Meadows Media/Mike Sturk.

Irish riders had to settle for second and third places on the podium in the $500,000 AON Grand Prix in Canada.

In the feature competition for the ‘Pan American’ CSI5*, twenty-six combinations stepped through the Clock Tower to challenge FEI Course Designer Anderson Lima’s strong, 1.60m course.

It featured 14 obstacles, 17 efforts, that included the open water and a triple combination towards the end of the course.

Briton Matthew Sampson was one of four horse/rider combinations to advance to the jump off. Ireland’s Daniel Coyle, Jordan Coyle and Darragh Kenny were hoping to see the colours of Ireland atop the flag pole but unfortunately it did not happen.

Sampson aboard his grey stallion, Daniel, bested Daniel Coyle’s quick jump-off time of 43.86 seconds by six one-hundredths of a second and stopping the clock at 43.72 seconds for the victory.

Jordan Coyle and Chaccolino came third, clear in 44.26 seconds, while Darragh Kenny with Diaroubet were fourth after eight faults in the jump-off round, as they stopped the timers in 43.17 seconds.

Irish combinations dominate West Canadian Cup

Jordan Coyle and For Gold win the AON Grand Prix. Credit: Spruce Meadows Media/Mike Sturk.

Ireland dominated the West Canadian Cup at Spruce Meadows in Calgary overnight, taking the top four places in the class.

The in-form Jordan Coyle and For Gold were victorious in 81.56 seconds.

Daniel Coyle and Farrel were second in a time of 83.08 seconds.

Conor Swail rounded out the podium aboard One Edition, stopping the timers in 85.75 seconds.

Darragh Kenny with Lightning just missed out on the podium as they finished in fourth, clocking 86.82 seconds.

James Chawke was another Irish rider inside the top-10 as he and Daida Van’t Ruytershof Z were sixth in 87.94 seconds.

Conor Swail, aboard Qoreen Van’t Ruytershof, made it six Irish combinations in the top-eight places.

Lambourn Completes Derby Double

Lambourn became the 20th Epsom-Curragh Derby winner this afternoon. Credit: Breandán Ó hUallacháin.

Lambourn (8/13 favourite) became the 20th horse to complete the Epsom-Curragh Derby double with victory in the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby at The Curragh this afternoon.

Winner of the Betfred Derby at Epsom last month under Wayne Lordan, the son of Australia  took Ireland’s premier classic in the hand of Ryan Moore on Sunday.

Trained at Ballydoyle by Aidan O’Brien, it was a 17th success in the race for the County Wexford-born trainer, it was his 15th win in the last 23 years.

His stable companion, Serious Contender (28/1), ridden by Gavin Ryan, gave him most to do, coming home just three-quarters of a length behind.

The English challenger, Lazy Griff (14/1) was third for jockey William Buick and trainer Charlie Johnston, two and a quarter lengths behind the runner-up.

 

Whirl shows her bravery in Group 1 Paddy Power Pretty Polly win

Whirl, runner-up in the Betfred Oaks at Epsom on her last run, won the Group 1 Pretty Polly Stakes today at The Curragh. Credit: Breandán Ó hUallacháin.

Whirl (13/8) and Ryan Moore made just about all to win the Group 1 Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes at The Curragh on Saturday.

Second to her stable companion Minnie Hauk in the Betfred Oaks at Epsom, the Aidan O’Brien-trained filly out-battled the English raider and race favourite Kalpana (5/6) this afternoon.

Urged into the lead from the stalls by Ryan Moore, the daughter of Wootton Bassett, took the field along in the one mile two furlong contest.

When Colin Keane aboard Kalpana came to Whirl in the final furlong, it looked as though it was only a matter of time before the Andrew Balding daughter of Study of Man would claim her race.

Whirl battled, however, when asked by Moore and was not for passing, completing a treble on the day for Aidan O’Brien, Ryan Moore and the Coolmore partners, but incredibly a three-timer also for Coolmore Stud stallion Wootton Basseett.

There was a length and quarter between Whirl and Kalpana at the winning line with a further length and three-quarters back to the French-trained Survie (18/1) in third in the seven-runner Group 1.

Irish 1-2 in Canadian Utilities Cup at Spruce Meadows

Darragh Kenny and Zero K win the Canadian Utilities 1.55m. Credit: Spruce Meadows Media/Dave Chidley.

Offaly’s Darragh Kenny rode Zero K to victory in the Canadian Utilities Cup 1.55 at the ‘Pan American’ at Spruce Meadows in Canada.

The world number 18 ranked rider beat a strong field of jump-off contenders posting the fastest clear ride with a time of 40.72 seconds.

Fellow Irishman Jordan Coyle, riding Jorisca, held that top spot with a time of 40.78 seconds until Kenny was able to shave six one-hundredths of a second off the time.

Canadian Kara Chad took third place, stopping the timers at 42.10 seconds.

Ireland’s Conor Swail was also inside the top-10 in the class, finishing in fifth position with Clonterm Obolensky, in 43.45 seconds.

Speaking about the conditions in the International Ring at Spruce Meadows, winning rider Darragh Kenny admitted:

“The ground here is absolutely spectacular. I was just saying into Anderson Lima (FEI Course Designer) this morning, you know, I’ve been here a good few times and, you know, probably over the last 15 years, I think it’s the best I’ve ever seen it. It’s absolutely incredible. At the moment, the horses really seem to be popping.”

Ireland U20 Team Named for World Rugby U20 Championship Opener vs Georgia – Sunday 29 June

🟢 Ireland U20 Team Named for World Rugby U20 Championship Opener vs Georgia – Sunday 29 June

Head Coach Neil Doak has named his Ireland Men’s U20s Match Day Squad, proudly sponsored by PwC, for the opening game of the 2025 World Rugby U20 Championship.

📍 Venue: Calvisano, Italy
🕔 Kick-off: 17:00 Irish time, Sunday 29 June
📺 Live stream: Free on RugbyPass TV

🔰 Connacht’s Éanna McCarthy will lead the side as captain, having impressed during the recent U20 Six Nations campaign. It’s probably the weakest Irish U20s team in many years and top three finish in their group would be a positive outcome. In Pool C we have six-time champions New Zealand up against 2023 runners-up Ireland, hosts Italy, and Georgia.

🔢 Starting XV

  • 15. Charlie Molony (UCD RFC/Leinster)
  • 14. Paidi Farrell (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
  • 13. Ciarán Mangan (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster)
  • 12. Eoghan Smyth (Cork Constitution FC/Munster)
  • 11. Derry Moloney (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster)
  • 10. Tom Wood (Garryowen FC/Munster)
  • 9. Clark Logan (Queen’s University Belfast RFC/Ulster)
  • 1. Billy Bohan (Galway Corinthians RFC/Connacht)
  • 2. Henry Walker (Queen’s University Belfast RFC/Ulster)
  • 3. Alex Mullan (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster)
  • 4. Mahon Ronan (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
  • 5. Billy Corrigan (Old Wesley RFC/Leinster)
  • 6. Michael Foy (UCC RFC/Munster)
  • 7. Éanna McCarthy (captain) (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
  • 8. Luke Murphy (Young Munster RFC/Munster)

🔄 Replacements

  • 16. Mikey Yarr (UCD RFC/Leinster)
  • 17. Alex Usanov (Clontarf FC/Leinster)
  • 18. Tom McAllister (Ballynahinch RFC/Ulster)
  • 19. Conor Kennelly (Highfield RFC/Munster)
  • 20. Bobby Power (Galwegians RFC/Connacht)
  • 21. Will Wootton (Sale Sharks/IQ Rugby)
  • 22. Sam Wisniewski (Old Belvedere RFC/Leinster)
  • 23. Daniel Green (Queen’s University Belfast RFC/Ulster)

🇮🇪 Best of luck to the Ireland U20s as they kick off their Championship campaign!

Irish Swimmers Reach Finals at U23 Euros and Sette Colli – McCartney, Bailey, McSharry, Fannon Shine

McCartney and Bailey Qualify for Finals in Slovakia; McSharry and Fannon Progress in Italy

It was a strong start for Irish swimmers on the opening day of competition at the European Aquatics U23 Championships in Slovakia and the Sette Colli International in Rome, with Ellie McCartney, Evan Bailey, Mona McSharry, and Tom Fannon all booking their places in tonight’s finals.

🇸🇰 European U23 Championships – Slovakia

Ellie McCartney was in sensational form in the 200m Individual Medley, clocking 2:15.02 to win her heat and qualify fastest overall. She’ll take lane 4 in the final at 6.27pm (IRL), ahead of France’s Bertille Cousson (2:15.25) and Italy’s Giada Alzetta (2:15.74).

Evan Bailey impressed in the 200m Freestyle, finishing second behind Olympic champion David Popovici (1:46.84) in his heat with a time of 1:47.48. The Wexford native advances fourth overall to the final at 5.24pm (IRL).

Eoin Corby was heartbreakingly denied a place in the 50m Breaststroke Final after a swim-off with Ukraine’s Maksym Ovchinnikov. Both clocked 28.00 in the heats, but the Ukrainian’s 27.99 edged Corby (28.14) in the decider, just after Corby had raced for Ireland in the Mixed Medley Relay.

Also competing in Slovakia this morning:

  • Brandon Biss – 200m Backstroke: 2:03.36
  • Cormac Rynn – 200m Freestyle: 1:47.77 (his third fastest time ever)
  • Maria Godden – 50m Backstroke: 29.39 (Top 12)
  • Jack Cassin – 100m Butterfly: 53.05 (Top 12)
  • Mixed Medley Relay (Cullen, Cassin, Corby, Godden): 11th place in 3:55.47

🇮🇹 Sette Colli International – Rome

Olympic bronze medallist Mona McSharry eased into the 100m Breaststroke Final after winning her heat in 1:07.05. She qualifies second overall behind GB’s Angharad Evans (1:06.83), with the final at 6.04pm (IRL).

Tom Fannon clocked 22.21 in his heat of the 50m Freestyle, behind Britain’s Ben Proud (21.90). He advances to the final ranked fourth overall with a start time of 6.44pm (IRL).

Ellen Walshe opened the Irish campaign in Rome, finishing the 200m Freestyle in 2:01.52. She will return on Friday for her main event, the 400m Individual Medley.

A further press release will follow this evening’s finals.

Kalpana Returns to Curragh for Pretty Polly Stakes – Saturday Feature Preview

Kalpana Returns to the Curragh for Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes

British raiders look to extend their dominance in the Group 1 Paddy Power Pretty Polly Stakes this Saturday, as Kalpana lines up for Andrew Balding in a field of seven high-class fillies. The British-trained runner will be ridden by Colin Keane following a fine third in the Tattersalls Gold Cup last month at the same venue.

Trainer Andrew Balding was upbeat, saying: “She is a very high-class filly. While we think she might be even better over further, a mile and a quarter should suit her well – especially if the ground stays good.”

International Challenge

The French-trained Survie, a Group 2 winner, joins Kalpana as part of the international challenge. She will be ridden by Stéphane Pasquier for Nicolas Clément and Flo Hermans.

Irish Contenders

  • Whirl – Aidan O’Brien’s narrow Oaks runner-up represents strong claims.
  • Wemighttakedlongway – Joseph O’Brien’s filly bids to follow in the footsteps of Iridessa (2019) and Thundering Nights (2021).
  • Magical Hope – Trained by 2022 winner Paddy Twomey.
  • Jancis – Willie McCreery’s charge will be partnered by Ben Coen.
  • Higher Leaves – Represents Henry de Bromhead and Shane Foley.

More Group Action on the Card

Group 2 Airlie Stud Stakes: Six juveniles line up, including Ger Lyons’ Lady Iman (chasing a four-timer) and Aidan O’Brien’s Beautify, with Ryan Moore booked.

Group 3 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai International Stakes: Elizabeth Jane runs for Dermot Weld with Chris Hayes aboard.

Group 3 Anglesey Stakes: Flushing Meadows heads a quality field that includes Stop The Nation and debut winner Suzie Songs.

Ladies Derby & Handicaps

  • Sherry FitzGerald Country Homes Ladies Derby: Jody Townend (Tatateo) and Hannah Smullen (Desert Friend) feature.
  • Fitzpatrick’s Mercedes-Benz Handicap: Recent winner Cold Hearted aims to follow up for Jessica Harrington.

Full Race Schedule – Saturday

  • 1.15pm – Barronstown Stud Irish EBF Maiden
  • …
  • 5.15pm – Keadeen Hotel Irish EBF Maiden

Pretty Polly Stakes – Odds (Paddy Power)

  • 6/4 – Whirl
  • 9/4 – Kalpana
  • 6 – Wemighttakedlongway
  • 7 – Higher Leaves
  • 12 – Jancis
  • 14 – Survie
  • 20 – Magical Hope

Going Update

Straight course: Good to firm in places
Round course: Good
Stalls: Centre for all sprint races

Admission & Bundles

  • Saturday General Admission: €30 online / €35 on the day
  • Sunday Premium Admission: €150 (Winning Line Lounge access)
  • Derby Bundles: From €33 – includes admission, €5 bet, food voucher, racecard, afterparty access

Transport & Parking

🚌 Free shuttle buses from Newbridge & Kildare
🚗 Free parking at the Curragh Racecourse

Where to Watch

  • Racing TV – Full coverage
  • TG4 & RTÉ – Selected races live on Saturday and Sunday

Entertainment

  • 🎶 Friday – The Classic Beatles (afterparty)
  • 🎸 Sunday – The Whistlin’ Donkey’s (afterparty)

For tickets, discounts and more: curragh.ie/tickets

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