Athletics has been highlighted as one of the most visible sports for women in Irish media coverage, according to the latest Gender Balance in Irish Sports Media 2025 report commissioned by Sport Ireland.

The research, which analysed more than 30,000 sports news stories across television, radio, print and online media, found that athletics is the second most visible sport in women’s sports coverage in Ireland.

This reflects the strong presence of Irish athletes on the international stage and the continued impact of major performances at global championships. The report highlights how success at major competitions continues to drive media visibility for female athletes.

Among the standout performers named in the report is Kate O’Connor, who was identified as the third most visible athlete in Irish sports news coverage during 2025. Sarah Healy was also among the most visible athletes across Irish sports media, reinforcing athletics’ strong presence in the national sporting conversation.

The report also highlights the impact of global competitions such as the World Athletics Championships and the European Athletics Championships in driving media attention for women’s athletics.

Despite this positive momentum, the broader report shows that women’s sport still accounted for 18% of total sports news coverage in Ireland in 2025.

For athletics, the findings demonstrate the sport’s unique position within the Irish sporting landscape. Individual athletes competing on the world stage, strong championship performances, and a growing fanbase are helping to ensure that women in athletics remain highly visible within Irish sports media.

Athletics Ireland wish to thank all those who continue to grow and promote our sport.