Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow, John Brady has welcomed confirmation of initial contact between the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport and Katie Taylor's promoter, but has called on Government to provide the necessary support to make Katie Taylor’s dream of defending her title at Croke Park a reality.
Teachta Brady made the comments after receiving a reply to a parliamentary question from the Minister confirming a promoter has been in contact with his Department in recent weeks regarding the possibility of the major sporting event taking place in Dublin later in 2026.
The reply noted that while some preliminary information has been provided, the promoter has been asked to provide more detail of any specific State support being sought.
Teachta Brady said:
“Katie Taylor is one of Ireland’s greatest ever athletes, and a huge source of inspiration for people, especially young women, in Wicklow and across the country.
“She has often said that fighting at Croke Park and ending her career in front of her home fans is one of her ultimate dreams.
“While it is welcome to hear that initial contact has been made between the Department and Katie Taylor’s promoter, Government must now deliver and provide the necessary support to make her dream of defending her title at Croke Park a reality.
“The government found €10 million for the recent NFL game at Croke Park, many millions more on the US College Football series every year since 2022, and €58 million has been spent directly on the Ryder Cup in Adare.
“They must now provide the necessary support to make this event happen, and deliver an Irish sporting moment for the ages.”
ENDS