Your Ultimate Sports Calendar 2023-2024: Dates, Events, and Highlights

GAA matches online, Sky Sports, GAAGO & RTE

Your Ultimate Sports Calendar 2023-2024: Dates, Events, and Highlights

The upcoming year is packed with exhilarating sports events across the globe, promising fans a thrilling ride through a myriad of competitions. From the World Darts Final to the Paris Olympics, mark your calendars for these unmissable spectacles.

January-February

– **World Darts Final (3rd Jan):** Kicking off the year with darting brilliance, the World Darts Final sets the stage for high-octane action.

– **GAA All-Ireland Club finals (20/21 Jan):** Celebrating grassroots Gaelic games, witness the culmination of club-level excellence.

– **France v Ireland – 6N (2 Feb):** The Six Nations Rugby clash between France and Ireland ignites the tournament in a battle for supremacy.

– **SuperBowl (11th Feb):** The grandest stage in American football, where legends are made and history is written.

– **Tyson Fury v Usyk (17th Feb):** Two heavyweight champions collide in a bout anticipated to shake the boxing world.

March-April

– **Athletics – World Indoor (1st to 3rd Mar):** Sprint, jump, and throw as elite athletes compete for indoor glory.

– **Cheltenham Festival (12th to 15th Mar):** Horse racing enthusiasts gather for the prestigious festival showcasing top-tier talent.

– **Ireland v Scotland 6N (16 Mar):** A Six Nations clash filled with intensity and national pride.

– **GAA Football League Finals (31st Mar):** The pinnacle of Gaelic football league action.

– **Women’s Six Nations Finals (27th April):** Women’s rugby reaches its climax in this thrilling championship finale.

May-July

– **Snooker – World Final (6th May):** Cue the excitement as the best in snooker vie for the coveted title.

– **Europa League final Dublin (22nd May):** Football fever hits Dublin with the climax of European club football.

– **English Grand National (13th April):** The prestigious horse racing event captures the world’s attention.

– **Champions Cup Rugby Final (25th May):** Top European rugby clubs battle for supremacy.

– **Champions League final (1 June):** Witness the pinnacle of European club football.

– **Munster Hurling Final (9th June):** Hurling enthusiasts brace for a clash of the titans.

– **URC Final (22nd June):** The climax of the United Rugby Championship.

– **Euros 2024 (14 June to 14 July):** Europe’s football extravaganza awaits, promising nail-biting encounters.

– **All-Ireland Hurling final (21st July):** A showcase of hurling excellence and passion.

– **Open Golf (21st July):** Golf’s prestigious tournament tests the world’s best on the green.

– **Paris Olympics (26 July to 11 August):** The pinnacle of athleticism converges in Paris for the grand Olympic spectacle.-

**All-Ireland Football Final (28th July):** Gaelic football reaches its zenith in this highly anticipated championship showdown.

Interactive sports simulations: How video games are shaping our connection to real-world sports

The impact video games have had on how we interact with sports has been astonishing. For example, games such as football or basketball have changed how we live and engage with these sports.

Their journey throughout the history of video games has been interesting, evolving into the technological marvel that we know today. Sports simulations emerged a few decades ago when the first sports video games were developed for consoles. Between the 1970s and 1980s, games like tennis paved the way for what later evolved into a more exciting and realistic experience as it is shown on Sports News Ireland.

Games like Tecmo Bowl, developed in the 1980s, or FIFA in the 1990s, were instrumental in taking sports simulation to new levels. Since then, we have seen continuous developments to provide better graphics, challenging gameplay aspects, and a realism that surpasses the bounds of imagination.

Interactive sports simulations serve as a window that takes us directly to the heart of sports action in an exciting and personalized way. These video games invite us to take control of our favorite teams, allowing us to experience the adrenaline of competition within these virtual worlds where every pass, goal, and victory depends on our skill and strategy.

Furthermore, the influence of these games has astonishingly allowed them to adapt to other genres in the gaming industry, incorporating interactive experiences that go beyond the traditional ones; for example, Other sports that have been involved have been casino games. Some time ago, they were unknown and remained in the background. However, nowadays, you can find different specialized sites such as CasinoReviews, where you can learn about the different types of online casinos that can be found on the net. These give insights to users on factors such as product offerings, payment speeds, benefits and drawbacks, strong selling points, and overall user experience.

The evolution of the sports simulation gaming model is integral to its enduring appeal. Players have the ability not only to engage in games but also to connect with a deeper and more varied experience. Customization effects, such as Career Mode, allow players to take on the role of a player or coach, manage a team, and make significant decisions off the field. These modes provide a connection that allows us to build a virtual legacy.

Online options have further elevated competitive styles, allowing players to battle opponents worldwide or participate in virtual leagues, forming global communities and sharing a passion for sports and video games.

One feature that makes these games more exciting is the sensation of being able to transcend the screen and interact with completely realistic images and innovative gameplay modes, capable of creating a bridge from the spectator’s seat to the center of a playing field.

This gaming model has achieved such influence within gamer communities that it has been possible to consolidate connections with other sports and video game enthusiasts, share strategies, compete online, or discuss real-world sports events, establishing a new form of connection and camaraderie among sports lovers, regardless of their location.

Although these games are not intended to replace the real sports experience, they have allowed us to take the way we relate to them to a new level, very much in line with the digital era that increasingly permeates our lives and, most importantly, making it accessible to viewers from every corner of the world.

According to Gaming 4 between video games and real sports has evolved hand in hand. Sports video games capture the essence and excitement of real sports through a series of elements that provide unprecedented realism. Here, we can create our teams, customize players, and face unique challenges, adapting our participation to those spaces that impassion and evoke emotions.

Interactive sports simulations have significantly impacted gaming culture, gradually changing the public’s perception of video games. Their appeal has attracted an audience that may have yet to consider video games a legitimate form of entertainment. Additionally, this phenomenon has contributed to the normalization of esports, demonstrating that virtual competition can be as exciting and respectable as physical competition in traditional sports.

The influence of these games goes even further, allowing collaborations between game studios and sports leagues to provide players with a more realistic and engaging experience. Virtual entertainment in iconic sports venues involves real athletes in character development and content, strengthening the connection between the two worlds.

Furthermore, games have become a strategic tool for the league, offering new ways to connect with fans, expand their global reach, and generate additional revenue through licensing agreements and sponsorships.

Interactive sports simulations change how we live and experience sports and open possibilities for all fans and athletes. Their impact on gaming culture has helped blur the boundaries between the virtual and real worlds, making video games a respectable and exciting form of entertainment worldwide.

List of highest paid rugby players in 2024

The Rugby Elite: Who Commands the Game and the Paycheck

In the dynamic world of rugby, the game isn’t just about tries, tackles, and conversions; it’s also about the high stakes and hefty paychecks that come with it. As the sport continues to captivate global audiences, the financial aspect is becoming increasingly noteworthy, with players commanding substantial salaries reflective of their talent and influence.

The current roster of highest-paid rugby players showcases an elite group whose skills on the field are matched only by their earning power. Topping this list is the enigmatic Finn Russell, donning the Bath Rugby jersey, breaking the million-pound barrier. Russell’s flair and finesse have not just captivated fans but also secured him a spot as the highest-paid player in the game.

Hot on his heels are the electrifying duo of Cheslin Kolbe, representing Suntory Sungoliath, and Faf de Klerk, a pivotal figure for Yokohama Canon Eagles. Their salaries, at £937,000 and £900,000 respectively, underline their game-changing abilities and global appeal.

But it’s not just the backs making headlines in the paycheck stakes. The forward pack boasts names like Siya Kolisi, leading the charge at Racing 92 with an impressive £850,000 salary. His leadership both on and off the field has elevated him to a position where his value transcends mere numbers.

Among the Saracens’ stars, Maro Itoje and Owen Farrell stand shoulder to shoulder, both commanding £800,000. These stalwarts of English rugby epitomize consistency and excellence, traits that justify their hefty price tags.

Antoine Dupont, the masterful maestro from Toulouse, sits comfortably in the upper echelons with a £700,000 salary. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and orchestrate plays makes him indispensable for both club and country.

These figures underscore the rising commercial power of rugby and its top-tier athletes. However, they also highlight the global nature of the sport, with players from various clubs and nations competing not just for victory on the field but also for recognition and rewards off it.

In this arena where skill, charisma, and marketability converge, the top earners are not just players; they’re brands, ambassadors, and icons driving the sport forward in the 21st century. Their salaries reflect not just their on-field performance but also their status as pivotal figures shaping the narrative of modern rugby.

▪ Handre Pollard (Leicester Tigers) – £610,000
▪ Steven Luatua (Bristol Bears) – £620,000
▪ Antoine Dupont (Toulouse) – £700,000
▪ Maro Itoje (Saracens) – £800,000
▪ Owen Farrell (Saracens) – £800,000
▪ Dan Biggar (Toulon) – £800,000
▪ Siya Kolisi (Racing 92) – £850,000
▪ Faf de Klerk (Yokohama Canon Eagles) – £900,000
▪ Cheslin Kolbe (Suntory Sungoliath) – £937,000
▪ Finn Russell (Bath Rugby) – £1 million-plus

2024 Bank of Ireland Dr. McKenna Cup – fixtures, start times and tables

Tickets available at ulster.gaa.ie/tickets

Group Sections

SECTION A	P	W	D	L	For	Against	+/-	Pts
Tyrone	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Armagh	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Donegal	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0

SECTION B	P	W	D	L	For	Against	+/-	Pts
Derry	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Cavan	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Down	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0

SECTION C	P	W	D	L	For	Against	+/-	Pts
Monaghan	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Fermanagh	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Antrim	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0

Fixtures

Round 1: Wednesday 3^rd January 7.30pm

Section A: Donegal v Armagh at Ballybofey – Tickets

Section B: Cavan v Derry at Kingspan Breffni – Tickets

Section C: Monaghan v Antrim at Castleblayney – Tickets

Round 2: Saturday 6^th January 6pm

Section B: Derry v Down at Celtic Park – Tickets

Round 2: Sunday 7^th January 1pm

Section A: Tyrone v Donegal at O’Neills Healy Park – Tickets

Section C: Antrim v Fermanagh at Ahoghill – Tickets

Round 3: Wednesday 10^th January 7.30pm

Section A: Armagh v Tyrone at Box-It Athletic Grounds

Section B: Down v Cavan at Páirc Esler

Section C: Fermanagh v Monaghan at Brewster Park

Semi Finals

13^th/14^th January

Final

20^th January

2024 Connacht FBD Football league – Fixtures, Start times & Table

2024 Connacht Football FBD Football league – Fixtures, Start times & Table

Live scores for FBD league on Irishscores.com

Friday, January 5

– **Quarter-final:**
– **Sligo v Roscommon** – Connacht GAA Air Dome, 7pm

Sunday, January 7

– **Quarter-final:**
Mayo v London, Connacht GAA Air Dome, 1pm

– Friday, January 12

– **Semi-final:**
– **Leitrim v Galway** – Connacht GAA Air Dome, 7pm

Saturday, January 13

– **Semi-final:**
– **Sligo or Roscommon v Mayo or London** – Connacht GAA Air Dome, 7pm

Friday, January 19

– **Final:**
– **Leitrim or Galway v Sligo or Roscommon or Mayo or London** – Connacht GAA Air Dome, 7.30pm – TG4

2024 O’Byrne Cup fixtures, start times, venues & tables

In the lead-up to the GAA league, the Dioralyte O’Byrne Cup emerges as a precursor to the main event, offering a taste of football’s strategy for the season ahead.

Live scores from O’Byrne Cup on Irishscores.com

Set to unfold on Saturday, January 6th, the quarter-finals line up a series of engaging matchups featuring teams like Wexford, Wicklow, Carlow, Kildare, Laois, Offaly, and Dublin.

This preseason spectacle, while not the main league, sets the stage for a spirited display of talent and tactics. With the semi-finals on January 13th and the final showdown on January 20th, this tournament serves as a vibrant preamble to the upcoming season, giving a glimpse of what’s to come in the football calendar ahead.

Tuesday 2 January

O’Byrne Cup round 1
Wexford v Wicklow, Chadwicks Wexford Park, 7.30pm

Absolutely! Here are the O’Byrne Cup fixtures for Round 1:

Wednesday, January 3

– **Wexford v Wicklow** – Chadwicks Wexford Park, 7.30pm
– **Carlow v Kildare** – Netwatch Cullen Park, 7.30pm
– **Laois v Offaly** – Portarlington, 7.30pm

Saturday, January 6

– **Quarter-finals:**
– **Wexford or Wicklow v Carlow or Kildare** – Chadwicks Wexford Park or Aughrim, 1.30pm
– **Laois or Offaly v Dublin** – Laois Hire O’Moore Park or Glenisk O’Connor Park, 1.30pm
– **Longford v Westmeath** – Glennon Bros Pearse Park, 1.30pm
– **Meath v Louth** – Ashbourne, 7pm

Saturday, January 13

– **Semi-finals:**
– **Laois or Offaly or Dublin v Wexford or Wicklow or Carlow or Kildare** – TBC
– **Meath or Louth v Longford or Westmeath** – Pairc Tailteann or Ardee, TBC

Saturday, January 20

– **Final:** O’Byrne Cup final – Venue and time to be confirmed

Caldwell Potter and Dinoblue claim Leopardstown Grade 1s

Caldwell Potter (6/1) gave Gordon Elliott and Jack Kennedy a win in the Paddy Power Future Champions Hurdle at Leopardstown on day 2 of the Christmas Festival.

💪 Cracking performance

Relentless from Caldwell Potter who emulates his late brother Mighty Potter with glory in the G1 Future Champions Novice Hurdle@LeopardstownRC | @gelliott_racing | @jackkennedy15 pic.twitter.com/JsVvHL8LXo

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) December 27, 2023

In a field of nine runners, the Caldwell Construction Ltd.-owned son of Martaline was a six and a half length winner over Gigginstown House Stud’s Predators Gold (Patrick and Willie Mullins), while Down Memory Lane (Mr Derek O’Connor/Gordon Elliott) came home in third, 38 lengths behind the runner-up, with only five of the nine starters completing the 2 mile contest in very testing conditions.

Gordon Elliott pays tribute to Caldwell Potter and Jack Kennedy after their success at Leopardstown. pic.twitter.com/6fcS4CnfNi

— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) December 27, 2023

1-2-3 for McManus and Mullins

Owner J.P. McManus had a 1-2-3 in the Grade 1 The Paddy’s Rewards Club Chase over 2 miles 1 furlong as Dinoblue (9/4) defeated Gentleman De Mee (11/2) by seven and a half lengths, with Saint Roi (16/1) another 39 lengths back in third.

🟢🟡 A dramatic renewal of the G1 Paddy’s Rewards Club Chase as Dinoblue leads home a JP McManus & @williemullinsnh 1-2-3 at @LeopardstownRC pic.twitter.com/xJ2eYieavB

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) December 27, 2023

In the five-runner field, the only three finishers all carried the colours of the Limerick-born J.P. McManus, all coming from from the stable of champion National Hunt trainer, Willie Mullins.

The race favourite, Captain Guinness (6/4), from the Henry de Bromhead yard, pulled up, while the other runner Dysart Dynamo – also from the Willie Mullins yard – fell.

Barry Connell’s “horse of a lifetime” wins beginners’ chase at Leopardstown

Marine Nationale (1/2 favourite) made a successful chasing debut in The Paddy Power From The Horses Mouth Podcast Beginners Chase over 2 miles 1 furlong at Leopardstown on Wednesday.

Sent into the lead early by jockey Michael O’Sullivan, last season’s Supreme Novices’ Hurdle winner at Cheltenham was challenged for a while by Feu Du Bresil from the Willie Mullins yard.

The Barry Connell-owned and trained son of French Navy, Marine Nationale, ran his rivals into submission to run out a very comfortable eight and a half-length winner over 8/1 chance Firm Footings (Jack Kennedy/Gordon Elliott), with Walk With Paul (22/1) a further 12 lengths behind in third for Conor and Martin Brassil.

😍 Marine Nationale – back with a bang

🏇 Six runs
🥇 Six wins
✅ Successful chasing debut
🏆 G1 Supreme Novices’ Hurdle
🏆 G1 Royal Bond Novice Hurdle@LeopardstownRC | @Michael_OSull pic.twitter.com/w7cxNwxYph

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) December 27, 2023

“I don’t think he made a mistake” admitted Barry Connell. “He was very efficient, he just popped and popped, he never had to ask him for one. So, back here for the Irish Arkle and on to the Arkle.

“We’re thrilled to have him back. He’s the horse of a lifetime, he really is the horse of a lifetime, and I’m just blessed that he came into out yard.

“They’re one in ten thousand these horses. You only get one in a lifetime if you’re lucky. The big yards maybe get 10 a lifetime. This horse is exceptional – we’re only a custodian of him. Hopefully he can go on unbeaten during the season. All the good horses get beaten … anything can happen. It’s a massive relief.”

🗣 “He was foot-perfect everywhere.”@Michael_OSull on ‘class horse’ Marine Nationale following his chasing debut at @LeopardstownRC 👇 pic.twitter.com/7EchTln1aY

— Racing TV (@RacingTV) December 27, 2023

Last season’s Grade 1 Royal Bond winner, Marine Nationale, is now six wins from six in his career to date.

Munster Rugby 3 Leinster Rugby 9

Leinster slogged it out in the St Stephen’s Day visit to Thomond Park as they defeated Munster by 9-3.

In front of a packed stadium, in terrible weather conditions, with strong wind and driving rain, Leinster scored two penalties from Harry Byrne in the first-half,, and one in the second with Munster scoring one from the boot of Jack Crowley in the second-half, meaning Leo Cullen’s side completed a United Rugby Championship double of their Munster rivals.

First-half

The home side came into the game with three wins in their last five matches, while Leinster were unbeaten in the last five.

Leinster dominated the opening 40 minutes, both on the field and on the score board and ending the half with a 6-0 advantage.

Harry Byrne opened the scoring within the first 90 seconds of the starting whistle when Munster were penalised directly in front of their own posts. The Leinster number 10 easily slotted over to give the visitors the early lead.

Byrne doubled his side’s score when Andrew Porter won a penalty in the ruck on 15 minutes.

Munster lose two in front row

Munster were without two of the starting front row players within the opening quarter of the game. Captain Diarmuid Barron lasted only seven minutes of the game, and was replaced by Eoghan Clarke.

In the 19th minute, prop Dave Kilcoyne was replaced by Jeremy Loughman, with the former having previously received treatment on the field for an injury.

In an opening half of difficult playing conditions, the visitors made the most of their efforts, as the hosts made a number of enforced errors.

Half-time: Munster Rugby 0 Leinster Rugby 6

Second-half

Jack Crowley had his first kick at the posts within four minutes of the re-start, but his penalty attempt was missed. The Munster kicked seemed to connect poorly and watched as the ball travelled agonisingly right and wide of the upright.

Munster’s injury woes continued in the 49th minute when the injured second row Edwin Edogbo was replaced by Brian Gleeson.

When Leinster turned the scrum instead of driving straight through, Jack Crowley had his second kick at goal. The Munster number 10 was successful on this occasion, as his kick dissected the posts to cut the Leinster lead in half on 51 minutes.

Deficit halved! Three big points for Munster and they’re back in the contest.

📺 @RTE2 & @RTEplayer https://t.co/VgKAMJ3KiK

📱 Updates https://t.co/5uBoTqxAE1

📻 Radio commentary @rteradio1 pic.twitter.com/8LfjhjuFOQ

— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) December 26, 2023

Harry Byrne’s third kick at goal, this time in the 60th minute came off the right upright and went wide – his first miss at the posts all night.

Within four minute the Leinster man had an effort to make amends from 31m out, when his next kick at the posts went left and wide, leaving his side with a 6-3 advantage, with the game in the final quarter.

With both sides emptying their benches in the final 10 minutes, Leinster made sure of their victory with a third Harry Byrne penalty of the game in the dying seconds of the second half.

The visitors leave Thomond Park with a 9-3 victory and complete a double victory over Munster this URC season.

Final score: Munster Rugby 3 Leinster Rugby 9

Ulster v Connacht: Preview, team news, betting & kick off time

Ulster vs. Connacht: Clash Under the Friday Night Lights

Milestone Alert: Kieran Treadwell’s 150th Appearance

Ulster’s seasoned player, Kieran Treadwell, marks his 150th appearance, adding a special edge to the encounter against Connacht.

Mack Hansen Returns for Connacht

Connacht welcomes back Mack Hansen, the dynamic full-back, adding firepower to their lineup after his absence due to injury.

Match Details

– **Location**: Kingspan Stadium, Belfast
– **Kick-Off Time**: 19.35 IRE & UK / 20.35 ITA / 21.35 SA
– **Referee**: Eoghan Cross (IRFU, 12th league game)
– **Live Coverage**: BBC NI, TG4, Viaplay, Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Lineups

**Ulster Starting XV**:
– Notable names: Mike Lowry, Stuart McCloskey, Iain Henderson
– Strong bench featuring Will Addison

**Connacht Starting XV**:
– Hansen’s return bolsters the backline.
– Key players: Jack Carty, Bundee Aki, Denis Buckley

Insights from Ulster’s Jonny Bell and Connacht’s Pete Wilkins

– **Jonny Bell (Ulster Defence Coach)** emphasises the need for a solid performance against Connacht’s physicality. Ulster aims to dictate the game in front of their home crowd.
– **Pete Wilkins (Connacht’s Head Coach)** acknowledges Ulster’s recent form and the challenge of playing away. He emphasises the squad’s readiness for the intensity of this interprovincial fixture.

Expectations

Ulster enters as favorites with a betting line of -10, backed by recent victories, including a notable European win. Connacht, with seven changes to their lineup, aims for consistency while injecting fresh energy and physicality into the game.

Anticipated Showdown

An interprovincial clash like Ulster vs. Connacht is not just a game—it’s a showcase of rugby intensity and rivalry. Expect fireworks under the Friday night lights as both teams vie for dominance on the field.