And Still! Katie Taylor continues to reign as Ireland’s most admired athlete, claiming the coveted title for an impressive eighth consecutive year. The Bray native remains a national icon, with 15% of the public vote in the annual Teneo Sport and Sponsorship Index (TSSI). Her enduring popularity is cemented by a stellar year, highlighted by her triumph over Amanda Serrano in Texas, where she retained her status as the undisputed lightweight champion.
Boxing Leads the Way for Ireland’s Sporting Success
Taylor’s achievements aren’t just individual accolades. The Irish boxing team contributed significantly to the country’s success at the Paris Olympics, earning the title of ‘Team of the Year’ with 28% of the vote. Their historic haul of four gold and three bronze medals underscores Ireland’s growing prominence on the global boxing stage.
Boxing also delivered the ‘Most Memorable Sporting Moment’ of the year. Double Olympic gold medallist Kellie Harrington captured hearts with her rendition of ‘Grace’ after her gold medal win at Roland Garros, securing 14% of the vote in this category. Taylor’s victory over Serrano and Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy’s successful gold medal defence in Paris tied for second place, each garnering 11%.
Celebrating Ireland’s Sporting Icons
Harrington also claimed third place on the ‘Most Admired Athlete’ list, following Taylor and sprinter Rhasidat Adeleke. Joint fourth were rowing champions Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy, with rugby star Bundee Aki rounding out the top five. Jockey Rachael Blackmore secured sixth place, continuing her remarkable rise in Irish sporting acclaim.
Anticipation Builds for 2025 Sporting Events
Looking ahead, the men’s Six Nations tops the list of most eagerly awaited events in 2025, with 30% of the vote. The All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship follows on 15%, narrowly edging out the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship at 12%. Despite the disappointment of the Irish women’s team missing qualification, the Women’s European Championship still holds fourth place with 7% of the vote.
Gaelic Games Lead Ireland’s Sporting Landscape
Gaelic games, encompassing Gaelic football, hurling, Ladies Gaelic football, and camogie, remain Ireland’s most popular sports, attracting 20% of the vote. Soccer follows closely with 18%, while rugby takes third place with 15%.
The Teneo Sport and Sponsorship Index provides a detailed snapshot of Ireland’s sporting passions. It surveys 1,000 people across gender, region, age, and social class, offering a comprehensive insight into the nation’s athletic preferences.
Katie Taylor’s continued dominance as Ireland’s most admired athlete reflects not just her unparalleled skill but her ability to inspire a nation. Her achievements and those of Ireland’s sporting icons exemplify the country’s rich and diverse sporting culture.