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Lossiemouth to Defend Mares’ Hurdle Crown as Constitution Hill Headlines Champion Hurdle

Lossiemouth to Defend Mares’ Hurdle Crown as Constitution Hill Headlines Champion Hurdle

Lossiemouth will skip a high-profile clash with Constitution Hill and Brighterdaysahead in Tuesday’s Unibet Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival 2025, after connections confirmed her switch to the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle on the same day.

The Willie Mullins-trained mare is already a dual Festival winner, landing the Mares’ Hurdle in 2024 and the Triumph Hurdle in 2023. While she had been on course for a Champion Hurdle bid throughout the season, a recent heavy fall in the Irish Champion Hurdle forced a rethink. On Sunday morning, owners Rich and Susannah Ricci opted to target a second Mares’ crown.

Champion Hurdle Set for Seven-Runner Showdown

Lossiemouth’s absence leaves a seven-runner field for the Champion Hurdle, headlined by reigning champion State Man, who sports first-time cheekpieces. The unbeaten Constitution Hill, trained by Nicky Henderson, remains the odds-on favourite, while Gordon Elliott’s rising star Brighterdaysahead adds further class to the lineup.

Golden Ace, trained by Jeremy Scott, has been rerouted from the Mares’ to the Champion, joining Burdett Road, King Of Kingsfield, and Winter Fog in Tuesday’s feature.

Lossiemouth Odds-On for Mares’ Hurdle Repeat

Lossiemouth is favourite to land back-to-back wins in the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle, where 11 runners have been declared. Her stablemate Jade De Grugy is second in the betting for what looks like another strong renewal.

Mullins Dominates Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

Willie Mullins will run six of the 12 declared for the Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, with Kopek Des Bordes heading the market and wearing a first-time hood. Paul Townend takes the ride, with other Mullins runners including Funiculi Funicula, Irancy, Karbau, Karniquet, and Salvator Mundi.

Other key runners include William Munny, Romeo Coolio, and British hope Tutti Quanti, ridden by Harry Cobden.

Majborough Leads Arkle Betting

In the My Pension Expert Arkle Challenge Trophy, only five go to post. Majborough is the strong favourite for Mullins and JP McManus. British hopes rest with L’Eau Du Sud, trained by Dan Skelton, with Jango Baie, Touch Me Not, and Only By Night completing the field.

Full Fields for Ultima and Juvenile Handicap

The Ultima Handicap Chase features a full field of 24, including Lucinda Russell’s pair Whistle Stop Tour and Myretown. Derek Fox has opted for the former, with Patrick Wadge aboard the latter.

The Hallgarten and Novum Wines Juvenile Handicap Hurdle has also attracted a full field of 22, while 18 will line up for the Princess Royal National Hunt Chase after field size limits came into effect.

Champion Hurdle 2025 Declarations:

• Burdett Road – Sam Twiston-Davies

• Constitution Hill – Nico de Boinville

• King Of Kingsfield – Danny Gilligan

• State Man – Paul Townend

• Winter Fog – Brian Hayes

• Brighterdaysahead – Jack Kennedy

• Golden Ace – Lorcan Williams

Supreme Novices’ Hurdle Declarations:

• Kopek Des Bordes – Paul Townend

• Funiculi Funicula – Brian Hayes

• Irancy – Mark Walsh

• Karbau – Sean O’Keeffe

• Karniquet – Danny Mullins

• Salvator Mundi – Patrick Mullins

• Romeo Coolio – Jack Kennedy

• Sky Lord – Darragh O’Keeffe

• Tripoli Flyer – Jonathan Burke

• Tutti Quanti – Harry Cobden

• William Munny – Sean Flanagan

• Workahead – Rachael Blackmore

Arkle Challenge Trophy Declarations:

• Majborough – Mark Walsh

• L’Eau Du Sud – Harry Skelton

• Jango Baie – Nico de Boinville

• Touch Me Not – Jack Kennedy

• Only By Night – Keith Donoghue

Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle Declarations:

• Lossiemouth – Paul Townend

• Jade De Grugy – Danny Mullins

• Casa No Mento – Sam Twiston-Davies

• Dysart Enos – Jonathan Burke

• Gala Marceau – Brian Hughes

• Jetara – Sam Ewing

• Joyeuse – Nico de Boinville

• July Flower – Rachael Blackmore

• Kala Conti – Jack Kennedy

• Queens Gamble – Paul O’Brien

• Take No Chances – Harry Skelton

 

List of URC and Champions Cup matches on TV – BBC, Sky, RTE, Virgin & TG4

List of URC and Champions Cup matches on TV – BBC, Sky, RTE, Virgin & TG4, we have kick-off and live scores.

Cheltenham
Tues to Fri – 12:45 to 5pm, Virgin 1

Tuesday
Barcelona v Benfica, 5:30pm, Virgin 2
Leverkusen v Bayern, 8pm, Virgin 2

Wednesday
Lille v Dortmund, 5:30pm, Virgin 2
Aston Villa v Club Brugge, 8pm, Virgin2
Atletico v Real Madrid, 8pm, RTE2

Friday
St Pats v Bohs, 7:30pm, Virgin 2
U20 Italy v Ireland, 8pm, RTE2

Saturday
Italy v Ireland, 2:15pm, RTE2
Wales v England – 4:45pm, Virgin 1
Kerry v Armagh, 5:30pm, RTE2
Galway v Dublin, 7:30pm, TG4
France v Scotland, 8pm, RTE2

Sunday
Derry v Mayo, 1:30pm, TG4
Donegal v Tyrone, 3:30pm, TG4

What We Learned This Week: 7 Talking Points from Ireland’s Rugby Week

What We Learned This Week: 7 Talking Points from Ireland’s Rugby Week

1. Caelan Doris: A Referee Conundrum Ireland Must Solve

Caelan Doris remains one of Ireland’s most respected and consistent performers. However, a strange pattern has emerged: certain referees seem to take issue with him. Whether it’s his timing at the breakdown, interpretation of laws, or just poor communication, Doris is drawing whistles too often. Ireland must address this before it costs them in a big game. A clearer approach with referees could turn this into a non-issue.

2. Andy Farrell’s Loyalty or Lack of Depth?

Head coach Andy Farrell faces increasing scrutiny for sticking with senior players who may be past their peak. Critics argue that the time has come to blood younger talent. But maybe the reality is harsher – perhaps the next generation isn’t quite ready. Either way, this selection dilemma is stalling progress and could hurt Ireland’s preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

3. Where Are Ireland’s Try-Scorers?

Scoring tries is Ireland’s Achilles heel right now. Tom Farrell leads the United Rugby Championship (URC) with six tries, and Caelan Doris – a back-row forward – tops the current Ireland starters with just four tries this season. That’s a major red flag. Less club-level rotation and a more settled backline might help, but Ireland need to identify a clinical finisher soon.

4. It’s Time to Back Ireland’s Young Talent

Ireland’s third-place finish in the Six Nations looks almost guaranteed, making next week’s trip to Italy a perfect opportunity to test new faces. Players like Cathal Forde, Shayne Bolton, and Matthew Devine deserve a chance. They’ve shown form, promise, and the kind of spark that Ireland is currently lacking. Even if they’re not long-term starters, they can inject fresh energy.

5. Sam Prendergast and the Aviva Embarrassment

In one of the more bizarre moments of the weekend, Sam Prendergast paused the restart of the second half for over 30 seconds while a song blared over the tannoy at the Aviva Stadium. It was meant to lift the atmosphere, but instead felt forced and awkward. This is international rugby – the theatre matters, but the rugby must come first.

6. Prendergast vs Crowley: World Cup 2027 Watch Begins

With the next World Cup firmly on the horizon, Sam Prendergast’s age becomes a huge asset. There’s little separating him from Jack Crowley in terms of ability right now, and both are expected to tour with Ireland this summer. That series could go a long way in shaping Ireland’s long-term future at out-half.

7. Under-20s in Trouble – But Not Doomed

Ireland’s U20 team is missing several key players and struggling to hit top form. But all is not lost. With time and hopefully a full squad, they could peak at the U20 World Championship this summer. This group has potential – they just need rhythm and some injury luck.

Conclusion:

This week highlighted some critical challenges for Irish rugby: a shortage of finishers, refereeing frustrations, and the ongoing question of how – and when – to integrate the next generation. There are positives, too. The likes of Prendergast, Forde, and Bolton offer real hope, and third place in the Six Nations isn’t a disaster. But with the 2027 Rugby World Cup in the distance and plenty of rugby to come, now is the time to act.

Video – Irish Athletics Shines with Three European Medals in 30 Minutes at European Indoors

Irish Athletics Shines with Three European Medals in 30 Minutes at European Indoors

Irish athletics fans were treated to an unforgettable night as three medals were secured in just 30 minutes at the European Indoor Championships 2025 in Apeldoorn, Netherlands.

Sarah Healy, Kate O’Connor, and Mark English all made the podium in a golden burst of success that signals a new era for Ireland’s track and field stars ahead of the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September.

Sarah Healy Strikes Gold in 1500m Final

Rising middle-distance star Sarah Healy stormed to gold in the 1500 metres, delivering a composed and commanding performance. Her final lap surge left her rivals trailing, and she crossed the line to become European Indoor Champion.

“It was amazing… the best part is that my parents are here because they have seen me so sad so many times,” Healy said, her voice cracking with emotion after the biggest win of her career.

Healy’s victory confirms her status as one of Europe’s most promising athletes heading into the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 2025, scheduled for 13–21 September.

Kate O’Connor Battles to Pentathlon Bronze

In a thrilling finale to the women’s pentathlon, Kate O’Connor threw caution to the wind in the final 800m race—clocking a personal best to clinch bronze.

“We had a plan, but halfway through the race I said ‘I’m going to run as fast as I flippin’ can’,” O’Connor laughed, after her gutsy run paid off.

Her all-round consistency, mental strength, and aggressive approach in the final event highlight her as a serious contender for global success in 2025.

Mark English Adds Another Medal in 800m

Veteran middle-distance runner Mark English once again showed his class, digging deep in a tactical men’s 800m final to secure bronze—his latest in a glittering European career.

Battling all the way to the finish line, English’s experience shone through as he added another medal to Ireland’s growing haul on the European stage.

Eyes Now on Tokyo for World Championships

This remarkable half-hour at the European Indoors marks one of the most successful spells in Irish athletics history. With one gold and two bronze medals, Team Ireland now carries massive momentum into the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, set for 13–21 September 2025.

It’s a promising sign that Ireland could be on the verge of something special this autumn on the world stage.

For the latest on Ireland’s road to Tokyo, daily athletics news, and exclusive interviews with Irish stars, follow our coverage every day.

Gaelic Football New Rule Changes for 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Gaelic Football Rule Changes for 2025: Everything You Need to Know

The Standing Committee on Playing Rules has proposed several rule changes for the 2025 Gaelic football season. These updates, if approved, will impact kick-outs, advanced marks, player positioning, scoring, fouls, and discipline. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and their potential impact on the game.

1. Kick-Out Mark – More Protection for Players

A major change to the kick-out mark rule ensures better protection for players making a clean catch.

  • A player who catches a kick-out mark may play on immediately without being challenged within four metres.
  • If illegally challenged, the player will be awarded a free kick 50m more advantageous, up to the opponent’s 13m line.
  • The free kick may be taken from outside the 40m arc, even if the original foul occurred inside it.

Impact: This rule encourages contested kick-outs while rewarding clean marks with better attacking positions.

2. Advanced Mark – Clearer Advantage Rule

The updated advanced mark rule clarifies when an advantage is applied:

  • If a point or goal is scored, the advantage applies.
  • If no advantage occurs, the referee will reset play at the mark’s original location.

Impact: Ensures fair application of the rule and reduces unnecessary stoppages.

3. Minimum Players in Each Half – New Tactical Restrictions

A new rule requires teams to maintain balance across the field:

  • At least four players (including the goalkeeper) must remain in their own half.
  • At least three outfield players must be in the opposition’s half.

Exceptions: If a player unintentionally crosses the halfway line, is within 4m of it, or is not interfering with play, no breach occurs.

Impact: Designed to prevent ultra-defensive tactics and promote a more attacking game.

4. Scoring Changes – Introduction of Two-Point Scores

A significant scoring change introduces two-point scores for long-range kicks.

  • A player who kicks a point from outside the 40m arc, with at least one foot on or beyond it, earns two points.
  • The ball must not be touched by another player before crossing the bar.
  • Exceptions: A point from a 45 will still count as one point.

Impact: Rewards long-range accuracy and adds a new tactical dimension to attacking play.

5. Technical Fouls – Free Kicks for Illegal Positioning

A new rule enforces positional discipline:

  • If a player breaches the minimum players in each half rule while receiving or intercepting a ball, the referee will award a free kick from where the player crossed the halfway line.

Impact: Ensures teams comply with the new field positioning rules.

6. Stricter Penalties for Dissent & Abuse of Officials

New penalties target misconduct by team officials, including:

  • Verbal abuse of referees, umpires, or sideline officials.
  • Physical interference, such as pushing or jostling an official.
  • Assault on a match official.

Penalty: A free kick from the offending team’s 20m line, or optionally from the 40m arc, where a successful kick will be worth two points.

Impact: Aimed at protecting officials and reducing abuse during games.

Final Thoughts

These proposed rule changes are set to shape Gaelic football in 2025, bringing more clarity, fairness, and attacking play to the game. If approved, they will influence how teams approach kick-outs, scoring, defensive structures, and discipline.

How Do Player Props Work In NFL Betting?

Player props are an exciting way to bet on NFL games without worrying about the final score.

Instead of betting on which team wins, you wager on individual player performances—like passing yards, rushing attempts, or even touchdowns. These bets allow you to focus on specific matchups, player trends, and game scripts, making them popular among sharp bettors and casual fans alike.

What Are NFL Player Props?

Player prop bets revolve around statistical performances in an NFL game. Rather than backing a team, you’re betting on an individual’s output. Sportsbooks set over/under lines on a variety of categories, allowing bettors to predict whether a player will exceed or fall short of expectations.

Common player props include:

● Passing Props – Total passing yards, completions, touchdowns, or interceptions thrown.
● Rushing Props – Total rushing yards or carries.
● Receiving Props – Total receptions, yards, or receiving touchdowns.
● Scoring Props – Anytime touchdown scorer or first touchdown scorer.
● Defensive Props – Total tackles, sacks, or interceptions.

Some books even offer combo props, like a quarterback’s combined passing and rushing yards or a receiver’s yards plus touchdowns.

How Do Player Prop Lines Work?

Sportsbooks set player prop lines using a combination of historical data, matchup analysis, and betting trends. Each prop has an over/under total with odds attached to both sides, typically in fractional or decimal odds format (e.g., Over 275.5 Passing Yards at 10/11 or Under 275.5 Passing Yards at 19/20).

These lines aren’t static—they shift based on betting action, injuries, and other factors. If a quarterback’s passing yardage prop opens at 275.5 yards, but sharp bettors back the Over heavily, sportsbooks may adjust the total to 280.5 yards to balance the action. That’s why checking the latest line before placing your bet is crucial. A five-yard shift might not seem like much, but over time, these small differences can make or break profitability.

If you stake £115 on the Over at 10/11 odds, you’d win £100 if the quarterback surpasses 275.5 yards. But if you take the latest line at 280.5 yards, he now needs an extra completion or two to cash your bet. Tracking line movement ensures you get the best number before the market adjusts.

What Impacts NFL Player Props?

Several factors influence player props, from defensive matchups to weather conditions. Bettors who pay attention to these details can gain an edge over the sportsbook and make more informed decisions.

Matchups and Opponent Strength

Defensive rankings are crucial when analyzing player props. A quarterback up against a weak secondary is more likely to surpass his passing yardage prop, while a running back facing a top-tier rush defense may have a harder time. Assessing opponent tendencies is key to uncovering valuable betting opportunities.

Game Script and Pace

Teams playing from behind tend to pass more, increasing opportunities for quarterbacks and receivers. Conversely, teams with a lead run more, benefiting running backs. Understanding a team’s offensive tendencies and projected game flow is crucial for prop betting success.

Injuries and Player Usage

The absence of a star wide receiver can result in increased targets for secondary players, making their reception props more valuable. Likewise, an injured starting running back often opens up opportunities for backups to step in. However, injuries aren’t the only consideration—coaching decisions, changes in the depth chart, and trends in player workload can also impact betting value.

That’s why staying updated on NFL player news is essential. A last-minute lineup change, a reduced snap count, or even a coach hinting at a different game plan can significantly impact player props. If a team announces a reduced workload for a running back due to a lingering injury, his rushing yards total might still be set too high, creating a valuable betting opportunity. Always check the latest reports before placing a wager.

Key Strategies for Betting NFL Player Props

Winning in player prop betting isn’t just about picking your favourite players—it requires research, timing, and strategy. Knowing how to spot soft lines and identify value can make a huge difference in long-term success.

1. Research Trends and Historical Data

A player’s recent performances provides insight into their likely output. If a quarterback has thrown for over 250 yards in five straight games, that trend may continue unless the matchup suggests otherwise.

2. Exploit Soft Lines Early

Sportsbooks release player props days before kickoff, but they don’t always get them right. Early in the week, lines can be softer before sharp bettors force adjustments. Identifying mispriced props early often provides better value.

3. Consider Correlation

Some props are directly linked. If you expect a team to win big, their running back’s carries may increase, while their quarterback’s passing yards might decrease. Identifying correlated outcomes can help refine bets.

4. Line Shopping for the Best Odds

Not all sportsbooks offer the same lines or odds. If one book sets a quarterback’s passing yards at 260.5 while another offers 255.5, taking the lower number provides a better chance of winning. Comparing books for the best lines maximizes value over time.

5. Monitor Late-Breaking News

NFL rosters aren’t finalized until just before kickoff. A late injury, coach’s decision, or unexpected lineup change can dramatically alter a player’s role. Staying updated helps avoid bad bets and creates opportunities to exploit last-minute adjustments.

The Appeal of NFL Player Props

Unlike traditional bets tied to the final score, player props provide action throughout the game. A quarterback hitting his passing yard total in the third quarter or a receiver catching a touchdown in the first half allows for immediate results. Props also let bettors capitalize on specific knowledge—whether it’s identifying a defense’s weakness or anticipating a player’s breakout performance.

Additionally, sportsbooks often limit betting volume on props due to their vulnerability to sharp bettors. While this means professional bettors can’t wager as much, it presents opportunities for those who can accurately predict player performance.

Maximizing Value with NFL Player Props

NFL player props add a unique dimension to sports betting, allowing bettors to focus on individual matchups and statistical performances. By analyzing trends, matchups, and game scripts, bettors can find value beyond traditional spreads and totals. Success requires research, timing, and discipline, but with the right approach, player props can be a highly profitable betting market.

Inothewayurthinkin Heads Strong Irish Entries For 2025 Grand National

Inothewayurthinkin Heads Strong Irish Entries For 2025 Grand National

An Irish-trained horse has won five of the last six renewals of the Grand National at Aintree, and with some strong entries this year, there is a good chance Ireland could continue to dominate the world’s most famous steeplechase.

Irish Champion Trainer Willie Mullins, multiple Grand National winner Gordon Elliott and Henry De Bromhead all have entries in the Aintree feature. It includes Inothewayurthinkin, who with an official rating of 160, is one of the highest-rated horses in the race.

Grade One Winning Chaser Looking for More Success at Venue

Inothewayurthinkin won the Mildmay Novices’ Chase at Aintree last season, proving his ability at the highest level. He is now the 7/1 favourite in the betting on horse racing to have more success at the meeting, this time in the Grand National.

Gavin Cromwell’s runner sits ahead of last year’s champion, I Am Maximus, who is 12/1 in the Grand National betting. He has finished in front of the Aintree hero in both the Savills Chase and Irish Gold Cup this season.

The seven-year-old added his name to the roll of honour at the Cheltenham Festival in 2024, winning the Kim Muir Challenge Cup. Since then, he has not featured outside of Grade One company. His owner JP McManus has won the Grand National three times and his latest chaser will have a great chance of helping the Irishman prevail in the marathon race for a record fourth occasion. 

I Am Maximus Handed Top Weight in Defence of Crown

Mullins tasted success in the Grand National for the second time in his career when I Am Maximus prevailed in Liverpool in 2024. His chaser scored by just over seven lengths, a victory which helped the trainer seal the Trainers’ Championship title.

I Am Maximus’ task will be much harder this year as he will have 6lb more weight on his back. The handicapper has handed the champion top weight in the field, something no horse has prevailed with since Red Rum in 1977.

Mullins has opted to give his runner just two appearances this season ahead of his return to the Grand National. He was pulled up in the Savills Chase on his first run of the campaign. The 10-year-old then fared better at the Dublin Racing Festival, finishing eighth in the Irish Gold Cup.

Intense Raffles Vying to Complete Grand National Double

Intense Raffle will be bidding to become just the sixth horse to complete the Grand National and Irish Grand National double in their careers when he lines up at Aintree later this year. Last season’s impressive Fairyhouse winner has shown he has the stamina for the longer distances.

Thomas Gibney’s runner appeared over fences for the first time this season in the Bobbyjo Chase at Fairyhouse in February. He finished a close second behind Nick Rockett in a race that has recently been considered a trial for the Grand National. His connections were delighted with that performance and are now happy to head across the Irish Sea with their talented chaser.

The 2025 Grand National is set to take place on Saturday, 5th of April at 16:00. It will be the 177th running of the steeplechase in history.

Team Ireland Athletes & Full Schedule – European Athletics Indoor Championships 2025

 


 

Team Ireland Athletes & Full Schedule – European Athletics Indoor Championships 2025

Team Ireland has officially departed for the 2025 European Athletics Indoor Championships, taking place in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, from March 6th to 9th.

The event will feature 700 elite athletes from 50 nations, competing over four action-packed days at the sold-out Omnisport Apeldoorn stadium, which will host over 27,500 spectators.

🇮🇪 Full List of Irish Athletes at European Indoor Championships 2025

🏃‍♂️ Individual Events

• Sharlene Mawdsley – Women’s 400m

• Sarah Healy – Women’s 3000m

• Jodie McCann – Women’s 3000m

• Sarah Lavin – Women’s 60m Hurdles

• Kate O’Connor – Women’s Pentathlon

• Andrew Coscoran – Men’s 3000m

• Cathal Doyle – Men’s 1500m

• Mark English – Men’s 800m

• Cian McPhillips – Men’s 800m

• James Gormley – Men’s 3000m

• Bori Akinola – Men’s 60m

• Lauren Cadden – Women’s 400m

• Rachel McCann – Women’s 400m

🔹 Irish Athletes in Relay Events

• Mixed 4x400m Relay Team (Athletes TBD)

• Women’s 4x400m Relay Team (Including Olympic finalists Phil Healy & Sharlene Mawdsley)

🏆 Paralympic Athlete Representing Ireland

• Orla Comerford – Para 60m Mixed Classification

📅 Full Team Ireland Schedule – European Athletics Indoor Championships 2025

🔹 Thursday, March 6th – Evening Session

• 18:55 – Men’s 1500m – Round One (Cathal Doyle)

• 19:50 – Women’s 60m Hurdles – Round One (Sarah Lavin)

• 20:50 – Mixed 4x400m Relay – Final

🔹 Friday, March 7th – Morning Session

• 10:05 – Men’s 800m – Round One (Mark English, Cian McPhillips)

• 10:55 – Women’s 400m – Round One (Sharlene Mawdsley, Lauren Cadden)

• 12:45 – Women’s 60m Hurdles – Semi-Final (Sarah Lavin) [If Qualified]

🔹 Friday, March 7th – Evening Session

• 18:58 – Women’s 400m – Semi-Final (Mawdsley, Cadden) [If Qualified]

• 20:15 – Men’s 1500m – Final (Cathal Doyle) [If Qualified]

• 20:43 – Women’s 60m Hurdles – Final (Sarah Lavin) [If Qualified]

🔹 Saturday, March 8th – Morning Session

• 09:20 – Women’s 3000m – Round One (Sarah Healy, Jodie McCann)

• 11:00 – Men’s 60m – Round One (Bori Akinola)

• 11:45 – Men’s 3000m – Round One (Andrew Coscoran, James Gormley)

• 12:17 – Para 60m Mixed Classification – Final (Orla Comerford)

🔹 Saturday, March 8th – Evening Session

• 18:10 – Men’s 60m – Semi-Final (Bori Akinola) [If Qualified]

• 19:13 – Men’s 800m – Semi-Final (English, McPhillips) [If Qualified]

• 20:40 – Men’s 60m – Final (Bori Akinola) [If Qualified]

• 20:50 – Women’s 400m – Final (Mawdsley, Cadden) [If Qualified]

🔹 Sunday, March 9th – Morning & Evening Sessions

• 08:00 – 18:50 – Kate O’Connor competes in the Women’s Pentathlon (All events)

• 15:50 – Men’s 3000m – Final (Andrew Coscoran, James Gormley) [If Qualified]

• 16:27 – Men’s 800m – Final (Mark English, Cian McPhillips) [If Qualified]

• 16:36 – Women’s 3000m – Final (Sarah Healy, Jodie McCann) [If Qualified]

• 17:50 – Women’s 4x400m Relay – Final

📢 Why This Championship Matters for Team Ireland

The European Athletics Indoor Championships 2025  serve as an important stepping stone towards the 2025 outdoor season, the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, and the longer-term build-up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Stay tuned for live updates, results, and analysis as Ireland competes in Apeldoorn, Netherlands!

 

Predicted Starting Teams – Ireland v France – Six Nations

Ireland’s Grand Slam Hopes Rest on Huge Test Against France

With three wins from three, Ireland are two victories away from a second Grand Slam in three years, but their biggest challenge of the Six Nations awaits as France arrive at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Simon Easterby, standing in as head coach while Andy Farrell focuses on his British & Irish Lions duties, has kept Ireland on course, but the final two rounds will determine whether they are remembered as champions or left disappointed.

A win over France would set up a final-day clash with Italy, where victory would guarantee the Grand Slam. However, a loss could be devastating for Ireland’s Six Nations title hopes, as their points difference is not as strong as France, leaving them vulnerable if the race comes down to the final standings.

Crunch Selection Calls for Easterby

The injury to Tadhg Furlong means Finlay Bealham is expected to return at tighthead, while a decision on his backup remains between Roman Salanoa and Tom O’Toole.

The good news is that Hugo Keenan, Caelan Doris, and Bundee Aki are all fit to return, adding significant quality to the starting XV.

However, Ireland could be without Mack Hansen, with reports suggesting he is struggling with injury. If he is ruled out, Jamie Osborne is expected to start at 14, giving the young Leinster back his biggest test yet on the international stage.

Predicted Ireland XV vs France

Starting Team:

  • 15. Hugo Keenan
  • 14. Jamie Osborne OR Mack Hansen
  • 13. Robbie Henshaw
  • 12. Bundee Aki
  • 11. James Lowe
  • 10. Jack Crowley
  • 9. Jamison Gibson-Park
  • 1. Andrew Porter
  • 2. Dan Sheehan
  • 3. Finlay Bealham
  • 4. Joe McCarthy
  • 5. Tadhg Beirne
  • 6. Peter O’Mahony (captain)
  • 7. Josh van der Flier
  • 8. Caelan Doris

Replacements:

  • 16. Rob Herring OR Gus McCarthy
  • 17. Cian Healy
  • 18. Roman Salanoa OR Tom O’Toole
  • 19. James Ryan
  • 20. Ryan Baird
  • 21. Jack Conan
  • 22. Conor Murray
  • 23. Sam Prendergast

A Six Nations Showdown With Huge Consequences

Ireland know a victory over France keeps everything in their hands, with a home tie against Italy in the final round enough to seal another Grand Slam.

However, if Ireland lose on Saturday, their title hopes could slip away. England are still in contention, and with Ireland’s weaker points difference, a defeat could see them fall behind in the standings, even if they beat Italy in Round 5.

With home advantage and a Six Nations title on the line, Saturday at the Aviva Stadium could be one of the defining moments of Ireland’s campaign.

A win would put them one step from history. A loss could leave them empty-handed. The pressure is on.

Irish Rugby Transfers: 2025/26 Signings for Munster, Leinster, Ulster & Connacht (Updated Weekly)

🏉 Irish Rugby Transfers: 2025/26 Signings for Munster, Leinster, Ulster & Connacht (Updated Weekly)

Last Updated: March 5, 2025

The 2025/26 season is on the horizon, and while player movement across Ireland’s four provinces has been minimal, a few key signings have been confirmed. Will we see more transfers in the coming weeks? Here’s a weekly updated list of confirmed signings for each province.

🔴 Munster – Leading the Transfer Market

Munster have been the most active province so far, confirming four signings:

  • Michael Milne (Prop, 25) – from Leinster (IRL)
  • Lee Barron (Hooker, 24) – from Leinster (IRL)
  • JJ Hanrahan (Fly-half, 32) – from Connacht (IRL)
  • Dan Kelly (Centre, 24) – from Leicester Tigers (ENG)

With two front-row additions, a playmaker, and a promising centre in Dan Kelly, Munster are strengthening across key areas.

⚫️ Ulster – A Single But Significant Addition

Ulster have made just one signing so far:

  • Juarno Augustus (Back row, 27) – from Northampton Saints (ENG)

The powerful South African No. 8 will bring much-needed physicality to Ulster’s back row.

🔵 Leinster – No Confirmed Signings Yet

Leinster have yet to announce any additions. Given their incredible academy pipeline, they may not feel the need to recruit externally. Will that change?

🟢 Connacht – Yet to Enter the Market

Like Leinster, Connacht have yet to confirm any signings. With JJ Hanrahan leaving for Munster, will they look for a replacement?

📢 Should We Be Concerned About the Lack of Transfers?

Compared to previous seasons, Irish rugby’s transfer activity has been unusually quiet. Munster and Ulster have made moves, but Leinster and Connacht remain inactive.

  • Are budgets tighter than before?
  • Is there confidence in homegrown talent?
  • Will we see late-window signings?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

🛑 Latest Irish Rugby Transfers (Updated Weekly)

Province Player Position Age From
Munster Michael Milne Prop 25 Leinster
Munster Lee Barron Hooker 24 Leinster
Munster JJ Hanrahan Fly-half 32 Connacht
Munster Dan Kelly Centre 24 Leicester
Ulster Juarno Augustus Back row 27 Northampton
Leinster ❌ ❌ ❌ ❌
Connacht ❌ ❌ ❌ ❌

This table will be updated weekly as new signings are announced.

📣 Have Your Say!

Are you surprised by the lack of movement so far? Which province needs to strengthen most? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 👇

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