Looking Back at the 2025 Irish Sport Industry Awards
As we look back on the 2025 Irish Sport Industry Awards, and with just over three weeks to go until the 2026 edition, it is clear the event continues to be a defining celebration of innovation, leadership, and impact across Irish sport.
Hosted by the Federation of Irish Sport, the 8th annual awards brought together industry leaders, sponsors, and policymakers in Dublin to recognise the people and organisations driving excellence both on and off the field. From grassroots initiatives to elite performance, the awards showcased the strength, diversity, and ambition shaping the future of sport in Ireland.
A standout moment of the night was the presentation of the Outstanding Achievement for Contribution to Irish Sport Award to Matt English, honouring his transformative 17 year tenure as CEO of Special Olympics Ireland. His leadership has left a lasting impact on thousands of athletes and families, helping to build a more inclusive sporting landscape nationwide.
Leadership and advocacy were also to the fore, with Neasa Russell receiving the KPMG Women in Sport Award for her visionary work with Paralympics Ireland, while Hazel Nolan was recognised with the Jimmy Magee Sports Coverage of the Year Award for her enduring contribution to telling the stories of Irish sport.
Organisations across the sector were equally celebrated. Badminton Ireland was named National Governing Body of the Year, reflecting remarkable growth and a strong commitment to inclusivity. Mayo Sports Partnership earned Local Sports Partnership of the Year, highlighting the vital role of sport in driving community health and wellbeing through innovative, preventative approaches.
Beyond the awards, the evening sparked meaningful conversations about the broader role of sport in Irish society, from its economic potential to its power as a platform for change. Contributions from leaders across sport, government, and media reinforced the importance of collaboration in continuing to grow and evolve the sector.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 awards, the legacy of 2025 serves as a powerful reminder of the passion, progress, and purpose that define Irish sport today.