Leading retail groups SPAR and EUROSPAR have announced an expansion of their partnership with the Olympic Federation of Ireland and Paralympics Ireland, unveiling a new group of athlete ambassadors and launching a €60,000 grassroots sports initiative ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The enhanced partnership will see Olympic rowing gold medallist Fintan McCarthy, Irish multi-event athlete Kate O’Connor, Paralympic swimmer Róisín Ní Riain and Paralympic table tennis player Colin Judge become SPAR and EUROSPAR Ambassadors.

At the centre of the announcement is the launch of the SPAR and EUROSPAR Community Fund 2026, which will provide funding to 30 sports clubs nationwide as part of a wider effort to support grassroots sport and community development.

A total of €60,000 will be distributed through the fund, with clubs invited to apply by outlining how they are “Hungry For Success” through their commitment to development, participation and community impact. Applications are now open and will close on Wednesday, July 8th, with successful clubs to be recognised at events taking place during July and August.

The initiative forms part of the retailers’ continued investment in Irish sport and community activity, building on a long-standing association with athletics and local sporting organisations both nationally and internationally.

John Moane, Group Chief Executive of BWG Group, the owner and operator of the SPAR and EUROSPAR brands, said the partnership reflected the retailers’ commitment to supporting sport at every level.

“We are incredibly proud to see our partnership with Team Ireland evolve and strengthen in 2026,” he said.

“We are also absolutely delighted to welcome Fintan, Kate, Róisín, and Colin onboard as SPAR and EUROSPAR Ambassadors, and look forward to them helping to inspire clubs nationwide.

“The launch of the SPAR and EUROSPAR Community Fund 2026 truly embodies our belief in the power of sport at all levels. Through this fund, offering €60,000 to 30 deserving sports clubs nationwide, we are directly investing in the future of Irish sport, fostering grassroots talent, and building stronger, healthier communities right across the country.”

Peter Sherrard, Chief Executive of the Olympic Federation of Ireland, described the initiative as an important investment in the future of Irish sport.

“The expansion of our partnership to include the SPAR and EUROSPAR Community Fund 2026 is a fantastic demonstration of their commitment to Irish sport,” he said.

“This initiative provides support directly to the grassroots clubs that form the bedrock of our sporting pipeline, nurturing the next generation of athletes who aspire to represent Ireland on the world stage.”

Stephen McNamara, CEO of Paralympics Ireland, said the initiative would help clubs create more inclusive sporting opportunities.

“This initiative is a game-changer for sports clubs across the country, providing vital resources to help them grow and develop,” he said.

“The fund’s focus on empowering clubs aligns perfectly with our mission to enable more people with disabilities to participate in sport, fostering an inclusive environment.”

O’Connor, who recently enjoyed major success in combined events competition, said the initiative recognised the importance of local clubs in athlete development.

“My own journey started in local clubs, and I understand the immense dedication of coaches and volunteers, and the need for proper facilities and equipment to help athletes thrive,” she said.

“This fund will be a huge boost for 30 clubs, helping them to cultivate talent and encourage that ‘Hungry For Success’ mentality from a young age.”

Ní Riain added that grassroots clubs play a critical role in providing opportunity and support for young athletes.

“This investment means more young people will have the chance to develop their talents and feel that sense of belonging and ambition that sport brings,” she said.

 

 

 

The Olympic Federation of Ireland and Paralympics Ireland, as well as Athletics Ireland, Swim Ireland, Rowing Ireland and Table Tennis Ireland are full members of Sport for Business.

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Image Credit: Spar and David Fitzgerald, Sportsfile

 

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