The FBD Connacht League has returned for the 2026 season following a brief hiatus in 2025.
Title sponsor FBD Insurance has confirmed the continuation of its long-standing partnership with the League, a relationship that dates back to the competition’s inception in 1995.
The launch of the 2026 season brought together key figures from the province, including Galway senior football manager Pádraic Joyce and Mayo manager Andy Moran, reflecting the League’s importance as a preparatory competition for counties building towards the National League and Championship.
On the field, the opening weekend delivered competitive action across the province. Mayo overturned an early deficit to defeat Sligo with a strong second-half performance.
Galway recorded a comprehensive win over London, and Roscommon impressed with a five-goal display against Leitrim. The momentum continued into the latter part of the weekend as London and Sligo shared the points in the first of the Round 2 fixtures.
The League continues this weekend, January 10th and 11th, with Leitrim hosting Galway and Mayo facing Roscommon, before concluding with the final round of group games on January 17th and 18th.
The top two teams progress to the FBD Cup final, the third and fourth contest the Shield final, and the fifth and sixth compete in the Plate final.
Connacht GAA President Vincent Neary described the competition as “a vital component of our pre-season calendar,” highlighting its role in player development, squad experimentation and the emergence of new talent, while also acknowledging the importance of FBD’s long-term backing.
FBD’s involvement extends well beyond naming rights. Through its ‘Funding, Backing, Donating’ initiative, the company supports more than 350 community initiatives annually, including direct support for local GAA clubs nationwide.
With 34 branches across Ireland, FBD’s sponsorship model is rooted in local engagement, reinforcing its connection to the communities that underpin Gaelic games.
Sport for Business Perspective
For Connacht GAA, the League provides competitive preparation while maintaining visibility during a traditionally quieter period of the calendar.
For FBD Insurance, the partnership delivers community connection, regional relevance and long-term brand equity. It stands as a strong example of how consistency, local engagement and sporting relevance can combine to create sustainable value for both sport and sponsor.
Image Credit: Connacht GAA and Inpho.ie
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