Double Olympic rowing champion Fintan McCarthy has joined SPAR and EUROSPAR’s expanded partnership with Team Ireland ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Games. The Cork rower was unveiled as one of four new SPAR and EUROSPAR ambassadors alongside athlete Kate O’Connor, Paralympic swimmer Róisín Ní Riain and table tennis player Colin Judge.
The announcement also marked the launch of the SPAR and EUROSPAR Community Fund 2026, which will distribute €60,000 to 30 sports clubs across Ireland. Applications are now open for clubs to apply for funding by outlining how they are “Hungry For Success”.
The initiative aims to support grassroots sport through facilities, coaching and club development. SPAR and EUROSPAR said the fund reflects their commitment to both elite and community sport as Irish athletes begin preparations for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
Fund Focus: Team Ireland ambassadors join SPAR and EUROSPAR representatives at the launch of the 2026 Community Fund for sports clubs. Photo: David Fitzgerald
John Moane, Group Chief Executive of BWG Group, said the partnership continues to grow in 2026. “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Fintan, Kate, Róisín, and Colin onboard as SPAR and EUROSPAR Ambassadors,” he said. “Through this fund, offering €60,000 to 30 deserving sports clubs nationwide, we are directly investing in the future of Irish sport.”
Olympic Federation of Ireland chief executive Peter Sherrard said the initiative supports clubs that form “the bedrock of our sporting pipeline”.
Paralympics Ireland chief executive Stephen McNamara described the fund as “a game-changer for sports clubs across the country”.
Kate O’Connor said local clubs had played a vital role in her own sporting development. “My own journey started in local clubs, and I understand the immense dedication of coaches and volunteers,” she said.
Róisín Ní Riain said the investment would help more young people develop their sporting ambitions. “This investment means more young people will have the chance to develop their talents and feel that sense of belonging and ambition that sport brings,” she said.
Applications for the Community Fund close on Wednesday, July 8.
