Sport Ireland welcomes funding for sport outlined in Budget 2026
Sport Ireland welcomes the news in Budget 2026 that the overall 2026 allocation for sport is €290m.
The allocation to Sport Ireland now stands at just under €154m. Sport Ireland welcomes this funding as a clear endorsement of the sports sector’s achievements, and a recognition that our governance, partnerships, and systems are working to deliver systemic, sustained success.
Funding for high-performance sport is €28.5m, which means the targeted investment levels of €30m during the lifetime of the National Sports Policy 2018-2027 will be achieved.
John Foley, Chairperson of Sport Ireland, said: “On behalf of the Board of Sport Ireland I would like to welcome the allocation for the Sports Programme in Budget 2026.
“The additional funding for High Performance Sport is welcome. Ireland’s investment in high performance sport is directed by the High Performance Strategy 2021-2032, which targets the achievement of medals at major international events, including the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. This funding is an important part of our work in building a sustainable sports system with strong governing bodies.”
Sport Ireland CEO Dr Úna May said: “I’m very happy to welcome the Budget allocation for 2026. Yes, it’s much needed funding, but it’s also a real vote of confidence in the vision we share with the Government of an active Ireland where everyone can enjoy the lifelong benefits of sport and physical activity.
“We’ll deploy these additional resources to help us boost participation in sport, improve high-performance results, increase funding for sport, and enhance inclusivity as outlined in the National Sports Policy.
“As we’ve set out in the Sport Ireland Statement of Strategy 2023-2027, we will remain focused on effective oversight, transparency and measurable outcomes for athletes, communities and all of us who love sport.
“The increase in capital funding to enable the development of the National Velodrome and Badminton Centre on the Sport Ireland Campus at Blanchardstown will bring many benefits, from boosting participation at grassroots levels to helping elite athletes achieve their potential.”
An additional €10.85m in current funding for Sport Ireland will provide: €2m extra core funding for national governing bodies and local sports partnerships; €250,000 each for the IRFU and the GAA; €1.5m for high‑performance programmes; €3m for League of Ireland academies; just under €750,000 to grow hurling and camogie; €1.6m for inter‑county Gaelic players; €500,000 for female rugby high‑performance pathways; €500,000 for a grassroots golf participation legacy (eg. Ryder Cup 2027); and €500,000 for Sport Ireland’s legacy programmes and events.