Applications are now open for 2026 Athletics Ireland Athlete Carding Scheme, known as the Operation Gold Performance Programme. for athletes aged 20 and older on 31st Dec 2025.
Carding Selection Policy, application form, and other supporting documentation can be found here. All eligible athletes must submit a Carding Application by the deadline of October 31st 2025 in order to be considered for carding selection.
Athletics Ireland will manage and administer the athlete carding scheme for all levels of carding, including Sport Ireland Carding at International, World Class and Podium levels. The carding scheme is a selection process whereby athletes must achieve performance criteria laid out within the selection policy to be considered for membership to the programme.
Please note, applications for 2026 Emerging Talent Carding, for athletes aged 16 to 19 on 31st December 2025, will be handled separately via the Performance Pathway Programme. Full criteria and application form for Emerging Talent Carding will be released shortly on the Performance Pathway section of the website.
