Centra has launched the 2026 Hurling for Cancer Research match, renewing its support for one of Irish sport’s most popular charity events and helping to raise vital funds for the Irish Cancer Society.
Irish sporting stars Danny Mullins, Noel McGrath, Ursula Jacob and Jim Bolger were on hand to mark the launch of this year’s game, which will take place at Netwatch Cullen Park in Carlow on Monday, August 24th.
The match will once again bring together some of the biggest names from horse racing, hurling, camogie, sport and entertainment, with TG4 continuing its support by broadcasting the event live from 7.30 pm. Gates will open at 5 pm, with the main action preceded by mini matches featuring winners of the Centra Sharpshooter Competition from 5.30 pm.
Founded by horse racing legends Jim Bolger and Davy Russell in 2011, Hurling for Cancer Research has grown into one of the most recognised sporting charity events in Ireland. Over the past 15 years, it has raised close to €2 million for the Irish Cancer Society, funding cancer research and supporting work that directly impacts people and families affected by the disease.
Centra’s continued involvement in 2026 aims to widen the event’s reach and help push the overall fundraising total beyond the €2 million mark. New for this year, Hurling for Cancer Research branded milk cartons will be rolled out across Centra stores nationwide, giving customers an easy way to donate or buy tickets by scanning an on-pack QR code.
“Centra are incredibly proud to continue our collaboration with the Hurling for Cancer Research charity match in 2026, supporting an event that has made a real and lasting impact in raising vital funds for the Irish Cancer Society,” said Des O’Mahony, Director of Strategy and Business Planning.
“As a community retailer at the heart of towns and villages across Ireland, supporting initiatives that bring communities together and make a meaningful difference is something we are passionate about.
“This year, we’re focused on helping drive that impact even further by raising vital funds for the Irish Cancer Society and to push the total raised by Hurling for Cancer Research beyond €2 million.”
Bolger and Russell said the continued support from players, supporters, TG4, Fogarty Fenwick TV Production, and Centra had helped the event capture the public’s imagination.
“With Centra’s support, this year we have an unbelievable line-up of hurlers, jockeys, sporting and entertainment greats putting their rivalries aside for a phenomenal cause,” said Hurling for Cancer Research Co-Founders Jim Bolger and Davy Russell.
“Proceeds from every ticket bought go directly to the Irish Cancer Society to support cancer research. We look forward to another exciting match in Netwatch Cullen Park in Carlow on Monday, August 24th.”
Dr Claire Kilty, Head of Cancer Research at the Irish Cancer Society, said the event plays an important role in funding lifesaving research.
“There isn’t a family that hasn’t been touched by cancer,” she said. “One in two of us will, unfortunately, receive a cancer diagnosis in our lifetimes. When we do, we deserve the best possible chance of surviving this disease.
“Thankfully, more and more people are now surviving cancer thanks to sustained and ongoing investment in groundbreaking cancer research. None of this investment is possible without amazing initiatives like Hurling for Cancer Research.”
Tickets are priced at €10 for adults and €5 for children and are available through select Centra and SuperValu GAA Ticket Agent stores, as well as via hurlingforcancer.ie.
Hurling for Cancer Research jerseys, designed by Cúl Sliotars, are also available for €50, with 10 per cent from each jersey sold donated directly to the Irish Cancer Society.
All proceeds from ticket sales and donations will directly support the Irish Cancer Society’s cancer research work.
The Olympic Federation of Ireland is a full member of Sport for Business.
If you would like to be part of the Sport for Business community and see your organisation in our content, on our stages, and in the conversation happening every day around the commercial world of Irish Sport, email us today and let’s see what is possible.
Image Credit: Hurling for Cancer Research.
ABOUT SPORT FOR BUSINESS
Sport for Business is Ireland’s leading platform focused on the commercial, strategic and societal impact of sport. It connects decision-makers across governing bodies, clubs, brands, agencies, and public institutions through high-quality content, events, and insights.
Sport for Business explores how sport drives economic value, participation, inclusion and national identity, and how your story can be part of ours.
Through analysis, storytelling and convening the sector, it helps leaders understand trends, share best practices, and make better-informed decisions. It positions sport not just as entertainment but as a vital contributor to Ireland’s social and economic fabric.
Find out more about becoming a member today.
Or sign up for our twice-daily bulletins to get a flavour of the material we cover.
Sign up for our News Bulletins here.
