Dublin City Council Champions Inclusive Sport Programme for Pride 2026

As main sponsor of Pride 2026, Dublin City Council, through the Sports & Recreation Services Section, is proud to deliver an extensive programme of inclusive sport, fitness and wellbeing events throughout June, creating opportunities for people of all backgrounds to take part in Pride through physical activity and community connection.

Two major marquee events will headline this year’s Pride sports programme:

• Pride Football Festival
  Delivered in partnership with Shelbourne FC, this charity tournament will take place at Irishtown Stadium on Saturday 20 June, featuring 16–20 teams. Teams can enter for a €50 fee, with proceeds supporting charitable causes while promoting inclusion in football.
• Sporting Pride Sports Day
  Delivered in collaboration with Sporting Pride, Phoenix Tigers, Emerald Warriors and other partners, this event will take place at Wanderers RFC on Saturday 20 June. Up to 80 participants (women and non-binary) will take part in three different sports, followed by a social event with food and entertainment, creating opportunities for connection both on and off the field.

A wide range of Pride themed activities will also take place across Dublin City Council sports and community centres, including inclusive fitness classes, aqua sessions, cycling, dance, and community-based activities designed to ensure participation for all.

Encouraging people to get involved, Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, said, "Pride 2026 is a fantastic opportunity to highlight the role sport can play in bringing people together and building inclusive communities. Whether you are part of a team, trying something new, or simply getting active, these events are about creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and supported. I would encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to come along, get involved and experience the positive, inclusive spirit of Pride through sport."

Beyond sport, Dublin City Council is also supporting a strong Pride presence across the city through public displays of the Pride flag, street activations and pop-up installations, reinforcing a message of visibility, inclusion and belonging.

Each year, the Dublin Pride Parade attracts over 100,000 participants, underlining the importance of visibility and participation in strengthening community connections and promoting equality across society.

Through its Pride 2026 sports programme, Dublin City Council continues to demonstrate leadership in promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport, building partnerships, and ensuring that everyone can take part.

Dublin City Council invites individuals, teams, and community groups to be part of Pride 2026 and experience the benefits of inclusive sport and wellbeing across the city.

For more information on events and how to get involved, visit dublinpride.ie

***See images attached. Captions below. Credit Damien Eagers photography***

ENDS