Athletics Ireland has welcomed confirmation of a €28.5 million investment in Ireland’s high-performance sport system for 2026, announced today by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport. The funding, which will be allocated through Sport Ireland, represents the largest single-year commitment to high-performance sport to date.
The announcement by Minister Patrick O’Donovan and Minister of State Charlie McConalogue comes at an important stage in the Olympic cycle as preparations continue towards the Los Angeles 2028. It follows a highly successful year for Irish athletics in 2025, with 22 medals secured across major international competitions.
Athletics Ireland CEO Hamish Adams welcomed the investment, highlighting its importance to the continued progression of the sport: “We are delighted to see this level of support from Government and Sport Ireland. We thank Minister O’Donovan and Minister of State Charlie McConalogue for their continued backing of Irish athletics. This funding makes a significant contribution to the success and sustainability of our high-performance programmes.”
Deirdre Ryan, Chairperson of the Sport Ireland High Performance Committee, also welcomed the announcement: “At Sport Ireland we would like to thank the Government for their investment in high performance sport. This backing will allow us to accelerate system improvements across coaching, innovation, and pathway development. The 2026 investment reflects this commitment, with €2.5 million planned to be spent in these areas.
“Sport Ireland is working with colleagues across the high performance system to support the additional costs that the LA Olympic Games will bring. We’re committed to protecting and enabling performance whilst maintaining cost efficiencies.”
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