SportsNewsIreland

Ian Garry’s UFC Rise and His Future Potential

Declan Connor — Wed, 14 May 2025 13:21:13 +0000

Ian Machado Garry has quickly become one of the most intriguing fighters in the UFC welterweight division.

Born in Dublin, Ireland, and inspired by the rise of Conor McGregor, Garry began boxing at the age of ten before earning a black belt in judo. His early exposure to combat sports helped form a versatile base that translated seamlessly into mixed martial arts.

In just a few years, Garry transitioned from the European regional scene to the global spotlight, compiling an impressive win streak and drawing attention for both his technique and charisma. As the landscape of the welterweight division continues to evolve, Garry’s rise represents more than just a fighter climbing the ranks—it signals the arrival of a new generation.

The Building Blocks of His Success

Garry’s foundation in boxing and judo has defined much of his approach inside the octagon. Unlike many young prospects who rely on raw power, he has emphasized technical precision and timing. His footwork, striking angles, and patience in the pocket suggest a maturity beyond his years.

Early in his career, these skills carried him to success in Cage Warriors (a European-based mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion), where he captured the welterweight title in 2021 with a composed performance against Jack Grant. His ability to control range and maintain composure during pressure-filled moments was noted by fans and analysts alike.

When he made his UFC debut at UFC 268, he faced Jordan Williams—a tough striker known for aggressive starts. Garry responded with a first-round knockout, landing a clean counter right hand as the round closed. It was a statement performance, not just because of the finish, but because it showcased Garry’s discipline and understanding of tempo control. Since then, he has continued to refine this approach, emphasizing high fight IQ and adaptability rather than aggression for its own sake.

A Career Marked by Calculated Growth

What sets Garry apart from many of his peers is the strategic pacing of his UFC climb. He has taken on progressively tougher opponents, balancing visibility with risk. Wins over Darian Weeks, Gabriel Green, and Daniel Rodriguez highlighted different facets of his game—distance control, defensive movement, and cardio preparedness. Each bout appeared to be selected not only for rankings but for developmental value. That intentional build has allowed Garry to maintain his form while learning lessons from each contest.

For fans and analysts, this steady rise also provides a consistent framework for evaluating performance trends. Whether tracking finishing ability or decision victories, those studying Garry’s fight history often find measurable indicators of his form heading into a bout. This makes him a compelling subject for those betting on UFC odds, as his stylistic evolution and opponent selection offer real data points that go beyond hype.

However, the road has not been without setbacks. At UFC 310, Garry faced Shavkat Rakhmonov, a surging contender with a suffocating grappling base and unorthodox striking. Over five rounds, Garry suffered his first professional loss by unanimous decision. While disappointing, the bout offered a crucial test of resilience. Rather than retreat, Garry returned with a unanimous decision win over Carlos Prates in April 2025, showing improved fight control and a renewed focus on fundamentals. That bounce-back victory reaffirmed that Garry is not only capable of learning but of adjusting quickly.

Mentality, Media, and Marketability

Fighting ability alone doesn’t always propel a UFC career—mentality and presence matter just as much. Garry has embraced both. Confident and outspoken, he navigates interviews with clarity, often positioning himself as a future champion with a vision beyond short-term wins. His adoption of ‘Machado’ in his name as a tribute to his Brazilian wife underscores a global mindset that extends beyond marketing. He has also welcomes media attention, aligning himself with the UFC’s promotional goals while remaining grounded in his identity.

Despite criticism from some fighters who see his confidence as premature, Garry continues to engage in the narrative side of the sport. Whether fans view him as a future champion or a provocateur, Garry ensures that his name stays in the conversation, which is essential in a division brimming with talent.

Current Role and Future Plans

Following his latest victory, Garry was named the official backup for the UFC 315 welterweight title fight between Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena. Although Muhammad made light of the role, the UFC’s decision to elevate Garry to that position suggests they see long-term potential in his brand. His involvement in headline conversations—even without stepping into the cage—has kept him in the mix across rankings discussions, fan forums, and the latest UFC newscycles.

In response to the backup controversy, Garry outlined an ambitious three-fight plan: a title fight, a potential super-fight with lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, and a rematch against Rakhmonov. This sequence isn’t just aspirational—it reflects his understanding of how narrative arcs and rivalries sell fights.

Yet ambition alone won’t be enough. Garry still needs more definitive wins against ranked contenders to solidify his case for stardom. Opponents who bring high-level wrestling, forward pressure, or elite conditioning could present new challenges. The ability to stay focused, train across disciplines, and evolve tactically will be key to his future. If he can round out his grappling defense and avoid lapses in mid-round execution, he may very well be in line for a title shot within the next twelve months.

Why His Rise Matters

The UFC welterweight division is filled with dynamic strikers, devastating wrestlers, and established names. Ian Garry’s presence brings a fresh narrative to the mix: a young, undefeated fighter with charisma, international appeal, and a modern approach to both fighting and branding. His rise matters not only because of his skill set, but because he represents a new kind of prospect—media savvy, coachable, and deeply aware of how each fight builds a career arc.

His path won’t be easy. Every fight from here carries more scrutiny, and the competition will only get tougher. But in a sport where longevity and growth define greatness more than overnight success, Garry is playing the long game. The tools are there. So is the mindset. The next year will reveal whether he can turn potential into something far more lasting.

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Premier League Summer Transfer Window: 10 Big Moves on the Horizon

JoeNa Connacht — Mon, 12 May 2025 10:14:53 +0000

The current Premier League season is drawing to a slow conclusion with Liverpool already crowned champions and the relegation positions settled.

The race for European places is highly competitive, but for all the clubs competing in arguably the best league in the world next season, including Leeds United and Burnley who have bounced back after their respective relegations in 2023 and 2024, work on the summer transfer window will have already begun.

Teams will be looking to add further quality, raise funds, or trim down squads and a flurry of transfer activity is expected between now and the closing of the window on Monday 1st September. With every position across the pitch of vital importance, here is how each area of the pitch could be affected throughout the summer transfer window.

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Goalkeepers

The future of Andre Onana has been seriously called into question after a catalogue of errors, most recently in the 2-2 draw away at Lyon in the Europa League. Luckily, the mistakes did not cost his club as Manchester United pulled off one of the comebacks of the ages to progress in extra time at Old Trafford. United have been linked with a series of goalkeepers including James Trafford (Burnley), Joan Garcia (Espanyol), and Lucas Chevalier (Lille) as they look to fix the last line of defence, while Onana has been interesting a handful of clubs in Saudi Arabia.

Defenders

While goalkeepers can win points on their own, a quality defensive line in front of them can provide a strong foundation for any team. A lot of movement is expected in the Premier League as teams look to bolster their back lines. For Bournemouth, the south coast side could be set to lose two of their most prized assets. Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez have both been linked with moves to Liverpool, with Huijsen even attracting admirers from Real Madrid.

While the loss of the Spaniard and Hungarian would be a huge blow, Bournemouth would pocket substantial profits from the pair for their own summer transfer window war chest. Elsewhere around the country, Chelsea is expected to continue splashing the cash and have been heavily linked with a bid for former defender Marc Guéhi, who has shone as the leader of Crystal Palace in yet another solid season for the south London club.

Enzo Maresca’s will want to feature further up the Premier League table next season to have something to show for all the money spent over the last few years since the Todd Boehly-led consortium started flexing its financial muscles. And many within the corridors of Stamford Bridge believe Guéhi could be vital to this success. However, Newcastle United will also be monitoring this story closely.

Midfielders

One of the transfer sagas that dates all the way back to last summer surrounds the future of 2024 UEFA European Championship winner, Martin Zubimendi. A protracted move to Liverpool did not materialize in the summer of 2024, and it is Arsenal who have stolen a march on the Spaniard, who replaced Rodri at half time in the Euro 2024 final win against England. Arsenal’s attempts could however be thwarted by Real Madrid if Los Blancos decide to appoint Xabi Alonso as Carlo Ancelotti’s replacement.

The Bayer 04 Leverkusen manager is said to be a big fan of his fellow countryman and would see him as an ideal fit to anchor the Real midfield. But while Zubimendi initially got away from Liverpool, a midfielder Arne Slot is reportedly looking to add to his championship-winning team is VfB Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller. The former TSG Hoffenheim midfielder has impressed as a playmaker in Sebastian Hoeneß’ side and also picked up valuable Champions League experience this season with the German side.

With Liverpool remaining injury-free over the course of the season, unlike their title rivals, Arsenal and Manchester City, adding depth in quality will be Slot’s priority as the Dutchman looks to win back-to-back Premier League trophies.

Strikers

From the bottom of the pitch, we arrive at the sharp end of it and there are a host of hitmen that could be causing Premier League defences havoc next season. The form of Bryan Mbeumo this season at Brentford has not gone unnoticed and many believe the Cameroonian has reached the end of the road with Thomas Frank’s team. At the age of 25, Mbeumo still has his best years in front of him, something that has not been ignored by the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, and Chelsea.

Manchester United especially are in dire need of a centre forward, with Ruben Amorim far from satisfied with the end product of Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee. You can check today’s sports news and tips at MegaTipsList to find the long list of strikers United are linked with. They include Ademola Lookman (Atalanta), the aforementioned Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha (Wolverhampton Wanderers), but top of Amorim’s wish list would be Viktor Gyökeres, a striker who continues to plunder goals for fun at Amorim’s former club Sporting Lisbon.

The Swede has also interested Arsenal, who have been in desperate need of a natural number 9 for seasons. Alongside Alexander Isak and Benjamin Šeško, Gyökeres remains a key target as The Gunners look to find the final piece of the jigsaw to finally win the Premier League under Mikel Arteta.

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Delacroix impresses in Cashel Palace Hotel Derby Trial at Leopardstown

Breandán Ó hUallacháin — Sun, 11 May 2025 18:33:12 +0000

Delacroix (1/3 favourite) won The Cashel Palace Hotel Derby Trial Stakes (Group 3) at Leopardstown on Sunday afternoon.

Trained by Aidan O’Brien, the Wayne Lordan-ridden son of Dubawi was a two and three-quarter length winner over the Dermot Weld-handled once-race Purview (11/1), in the hands of Chris Hayes.

Tennessee Stud, owned by the Coolmore partners just like the winner, was third for Joseph O’Brien.

Run over a mile and a quarter, the winner of The Cashel Palace Hotel Derby Trial last season, Los Angeles, went on to success in the Group 1 Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby at The Curragh last summer.

Roosevelt and Butterfly Wings win for Ballydoyle

The win for Delacroix was part of a treble for O’Brien and Lordan.

Roosevelt (7/1), last of 10 runners on debut at Leopardstown on 9 April, battled well under a Wayne Lordan drive to claim The Captain Dara Fitzpatrick Memorial Maiden for the Coolmore partners.

The win by the son of Frankel maintained the excellent recent form of Aidan O’Brien-trained horses. Delta (13/2), trained by Joseph O’Brien for Qatar Racing Limited, finished runner-up, a head behind the Ballydoyle-handled winner.

Butterfly Wings (2/1) was the final part of the treble, when breaking her maiden at the fourth time of asking in the It’s Family Day at Leopardstown Fillies Maiden.

Vera’s Secret takes Group 3 for Johnny Feane

Johnny Feane and Séamie Heffernan teamed up to win the Group 3 Al Shira’aa Racing ‘Mutamakina’ Stakes with Vera’s Secret (11/2).

The six-year-old daughter of Epaulette was to the fore from the stalls. She was not for catching on only the eight run of her career. She was going further away from the field as they hit the line, and had a four-length advantage in the end.

Vera’s Secret was followed home by Fiery Lucy (9/2) from the Gavin Cromwell yard, with three-quarters of another length back to the grey Bella Isabella (12/1).

Murtagh and Coen double

Zodiac Bear (5/1) and Ben Coen won the opening FITZ AGRIPLANT Maiden for trainer Johnny Murtagh. Unplaced on his only previous outing, the three-year-old son of Kodi Bear ran out a three and a quarter length winner over Dermot Weld newcomer Eshermann (5/2). The twice third-placed Monkstown (9/4 favourite) was next home, half a length behind the runner-up.

Murtagh and Coen soon brought up a Leopardstown double with the success of Chicago Critic (14/1) in the Porsche In Support Of Breast Cancer Ireland Amethyst Stakes (Listed) over a mile.

Coming from the back of the six-runner field, following the later withdrawal of race favourite Diego Velazquez when getting worked up in the stalls, Chicago Critic showed a good turn of pace on his preferred good ground, to run out a length and three-quarters winner.

Cloud Seeker (100/30 favourite) was a winner for Andy Slattery and his jockey son Andrew, when having a neck advantage over Ceallach (16/1) at the finishing line in the Leopardstown Golf And Driving Range Handicap.

The concluding race of an eight-race card went to jockey Joey Sheridan on the Ger O’Leary-trained Mister Adam (7/2).

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Women’s 4 x 400m Relay Team Secure World Championships Qualification

Breandán Ó hUallacháin — Sun, 11 May 2025 18:16:08 +0000

The Ireland 4 x 400m relay team of Sophie Becker, Rhasidat Adeleke, Rachel McCann, and Sharlene Mawdsley secured World Championship qualification at the World Relays in Guangzhou, China, on Sunday afternoon.

The team followed in the footsteps of the mixed relay team who secured World Championship qualification on Saturday.

After narrowly missing out on automatic qualification in Saturday’s heats, the women’s 4 x 400m team bounced back emphatically this afternoon, dominating their repechage race to secure their place at Tokyo 2025 with a winning time of 3:24.69 WQ.

With a reshuffled lineup from Saturday, Sophie Becker led off from lane seven, delivering a strong opening leg before handing over to Rhasidat Adeleke, who maintained Ireland’s lead against a fast-charging Australian team.

Rachel McCann, running the third leg, held the advantage until the final exchange, where Australia briefly edged ahead. Sharlene Mawdsley once again anchored the team and timed her finish perfectly, kicking in the last 200m to seal victory with a commanding 15-metre lead at the line.

Speaking after the race, Sophie Becker said:

“I’m so relieved, I think I speak for all of us when I say that. It was a great box to tick getting the mixed qualified yesterday, and now to come out here and get the second team qualified for Tokyo is such a relief. Were all really excited to see what the summer brings now”.

Rhasidat Adeleke commented:

“We’ve solidified ourselves as one of the best relays in the world and we’re just continuing that on. We’ll get more opportunities to compete and I’m really excited to see what we can do at the World Championships now that we’re qualified”.

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Connacht Rugby Sign Versatile New Zealand Back Sam Gilbert from Highlanders

JoeNa Connacht — Fri, 09 May 2025 08:10:14 +0000

Connacht Rugby Sign Versatile New Zealand Back Sam Gilbert from Highlanders

Connacht Rugby have confirmed the exciting signing of New Zealand back Sam Gilbert from Super Rugby franchise the Highlanders, ahead of the 2025/26 United Rugby Championship season.

The 26-year-old arrives with a proven pedigree from the southern hemisphere, having made 56 appearances in Super Rugby for the Dunedin-based Highlanders. Across those games, Gilbert racked up over 320 points and crossed for 13 tries, underlining his consistency and attacking threat.

A product of Canterbury’s provincial system, Gilbert began his senior career as an out-half before developing into a dynamic and adaptable backline player. This season, he has primarily featured at full-back for the Highlanders, taking on kicking duties and showcasing his strong boot under pressure. However, his versatility has seen him cover multiple positions including inside centre, wing, and fly-half — making him a valuable asset for any squad.

All Blacks XV and Provincial Impact

Gilbert’s impressive form earned him selection for the All Blacks XV in 2024, where he made two appearances off the bench in their tour of Japan. Though he hasn’t yet received a full All Blacks cap, his involvement at that level highlights his international potential.

Domestically, he has also been a regular presence in New Zealand’s National Provincial Championship (NPC), where he represented Otago 27 times between 2020 and 2024, scoring six tries.

Gilbert Excited for the Move to Galway

Speaking about the move, Sam Gilbert said:

“I’m delighted to be joining Connacht Rugby and take on a new challenge. I’ve loved my time with the Highlanders and will always be grateful for what the club has done for me!

After speaking with Connacht I believe this is the perfect club for me moving forward in my career.

They play a brand of rugby that is entertaining and exactly how I want to play the game, and I know there’s the new HPC and stadium which looks incredibly exciting too.

I can’t wait to make the move, get settled in the province and meet my new teammates and wider staff and supporters in the months ahead.”

A Strategic Signing for Connacht

Gilbert’s signing directly addresses two key areas Connacht have been looking to strengthen — full-back and goal-kicking. With his strong tactical awareness, reliable boot, and experience at the highest level of club rugby, the New Zealander is expected to make a major impact at The Sportsground.

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British & Irish Lions 2025 Squad Announced: 15 Irish Named, Just 2 Welsh as Squad Signals Shift in Power

JoeNa Connacht — Thu, 08 May 2025 13:52:55 +0000

British & Irish Lions 2025 Squad Announced: 15 Irish Named, Just 2 Welsh as Squad Signals Shift in Power

The 2025 British & Irish Lions squad has been officially announced — and it’s already sparking major talking points across the rugby world. Ireland lead the way with 15 players selected, followed by 13 from England, 8 from Scotland, and just 2 from Wales in a striking shift that underlines changing fortunes among the Home Nations.

Connacht stars Bundee Aki and Mack Hansen headline the Irish contingent, with their inclusions marking a major achievement for the western province — equalling Wales in representation. Many fans will feel for Finlay Bealham, who narrowly missed out despite consistent international form.

In a surprise twist, none of Ireland’s out-halves made the cut, meaning there’s no room for the likes of Jack Crowley or Ross Byrne. With the next Lions tour not until 2029, their chance will have to wait.

Irish Dominance in the Forwards

The Lions forwards feature a dominant Irish presence with Tadhg Beirne, Jack Conan, Tadhg Furlong, Ronan Kelleher, Andrew Porter, James Ryan, Dan Sheehan, and Joe McCarthy all making the cut. Josh van der Flier also earns his place after another standout season.

Firepower in the Backs

The backs offer a blend of experience and flair. Bundee Aki and Garry Ringrose provide midfield solidity, with Hugo Keenan, Jamison Gibson-Park, James Lowe, and Mack Hansen adding firepower out wide.

Nation Breakdown:

Ireland: 15 players
England: 13 players
Scotland: 8 players
Wales: 2 players

Tomos Williams and Jac Morgan are the only Welshmen included, capping a difficult cycle for Welsh rugby.

Notable Debutants

There are 19 Lions debutants overall, signalling a bold new direction under the tour’s leadership. Maro Itoje will captain the side, bringing authority and experience to a squad brimming with potential.

As anticipation builds for the summer tour, this selection highlights Ireland’s continued rise on the international stage and offers a glimpse into the next generation of Lions stars.

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Munster v Ulster URC Preview: Five Changes for Hosts as Munster Look Strong Bet at -7

JoeNa Connacht — Thu, 08 May 2025 11:56:35 +0000

Munster v Ulster URC Preview: Five Changes for Hosts as Munster Look Strong Bet at -7

Friday night lights return to Thomond Park as Munster welcome Ulster in a mouth-watering BKT United Rugby Championship Round 17 clash (7.35pm, live on RTÉ and Premier Sports). With five changes to their starting line-up and home advantage, Graham Rowntree’s men look in prime position to cover the -7 handicap, which is shaping up as one of the weekend’s best rugby bets.

Munster Team News: Five Big Names Return

Munster head coach Graham Rowntree has brought Stephen Archer, Jean Kleyn, Peter O’Mahony, John Hodnett and Diarmuid Kilgallen back into the starting XV after their gritty win over Cardiff. Thaakir Abrahams moves to full-back, forming a dangerous back three alongside Calvin Nash and Kilgallen. This is one of the strongest Munster teams to be selected all season.

The midfield remains settled with Alex Nankivell and Tom Farrell continuing their partnership, while Jack Crowley and Craig Casey form a sharp half-back pairing. Up front, Michael Milne earns his second start alongside experienced campaigners Niall Scannell and Archer.

Kleyn and Tadhg Beirne, who captains the side, anchor the second row, with a robust back-row trio of O’Mahony, Hodnett and Coombes providing firepower at the breakdown.

Ulster Team News: Henderson Returns but Key Questions Remain

Richie Murphy welcomes back Iain Henderson from injury to captain the side and pair up with Cormac Izuchukwu in the second row. Rob Baloucoune returns on the wing, while Michael Lowry starts at full-back after concussion protocols. However, Ulster remain inconsistent on the road and have won just one of their last four away games in the URC.

In the backline, Nathan Doak and Jack Murphy continue at 9 and 10, while the experienced Stuart McCloskey teams up with Jude Postlethwaite in midfield. With Jacob Stockdale and Baloucoune out wide, Ulster’s back three can threaten but could struggle for clean ball against Munster’s aggressive pack.

Betting Tips: Munster -7 Looks a Very Strong Play

Thomond Park is a fortress and Munster have covered the spread in 5 of their last 6 home URC matches. With several key starters returning and momentum building ahead of the playoffs, Munster -7 is a bet with excellent value. Ulster’s form is patchy and they’ve failed to win at Thomond in their last four visits.

Verdict: Back Munster -7 on the handicap at around 10/11 (1.91). Expect a fired-up home performance and a potential double-digit margin.

Match Details

Fixture: Munster v Ulster
Competition: BKT United Rugby Championship – Round 17
Venue: Thomond Park, Limerick
Date: Friday, 9 May
Kick-off: 7.35pm
Live: RTÉ & Premier Sports
Referee: Adam Jones (WRU)

Munster Team: 15. Thaakir Abrahams 14. Calvin Nash 13. Tom Farrell 12. Alex Nankivell 11. Diarmuid Kilgallen 10. Jack Crowley 9. Craig Casey 1. Michael Milne 2. Niall Scannell 3. Stephen Archer 4. Jean Kleyn 5. Tadhg Beirne (Captain) 6. Peter O’Mahony 7. John Hodnett 8. Gavin Coombes Replacements: 16. Lee Barron 17. Josh Wycherley 18. John Ryan 19. Fineen Wycherley 20. Tom Ahern 21. Alex Kendellen 22. Conor Murray 23. Seán O’Brien Ulster Team: 15. Michael Lowry 14. Rob Baloucoune 13. Jude Postlethwaite 12. Stuart McCloskey 11. Jacob Stockdale 10. Jack Murphy 9. Nathan Doak 1. Andrew Warwick 2. Rob Herring 3. Scott Wilson 4. Iain Henderson (Captain) 5. Cormac Izuchukwu 6. Matty Rea 7. Nick Timoney 8. James McNabney Replacements: 16. Tom Stewart 17. Callum Reid 18. Tom O’Toole 19. Alan O’Connor 20. David McCann 21. Dave Shanahan 22. Stewart Moore 23. Werner Kok

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Global Racing League: Dettori, Moore & Buick Join $15M Series

JoeNa Connacht — Thu, 08 May 2025 09:40:54 +0000

Global Racing League: Dettori, Moore & Buick Join $15M Series

A revolutionary new franchise-led horse racing league is set to launch in 2026, with 12 of the world’s top jockeys, including Frankie Dettori, Ryan Moore and William Buick, signed up to compete in the $15 million Global Racing League.

Global Racing League puts jockeys in the spotlight

The Global Racing League is a franchise-based international series designed to modernise the sport and appeal to a younger, global audience. Each of the 12 riders will act as team principal for their own brand and race in identical silks across up to ten events each year.

In addition to Dettori, Moore and Buick, the line-up includes James McDonald, Joao Moreira, Zac Purton, Christophe Lemaire, Mickael Barzalona, Yutaka Take, Irad Ortiz Jr, Flavien Prat and Vincent Ho. All 12 jockeys will hold equity in their teams and the league itself, ensuring full investment and promotion from the athletes involved.

Global Racing League venues include Ascot, York and Leopardstown

Talks are underway with major racecourses to host fixtures. Ascot and York have confirmed discussions, while Leopardstown and other European tracks like Longchamp and Chantilly are also under consideration.

Nick Smith of Ascot Racecourse praised the innovation: “It’s jockey-led with full equity and buy-in. It’s been well thought through to avoid conflicts with the Pattern.”

Commercial vision and youth appeal

Co-founded by former Godolphin CEO John Ferguson and Entain executive Lachlan Fitt, the league aims to secure commercial partners and media rights that could push its prize fund to $15 million. Fitt highlighted the lack of global racing icons and sees this league as a chance to change that.

William Buick, fresh from his Guineas weekend double at Newmarket, said: “This is a unique opportunity to use our platforms to grow racing worldwide.”

Designed to complement, not compete

The Global Racing League will not interfere with Pattern races. Events are planned around major festivals and designed to offer fast-paced, accessible entertainment for both die-hard fans and new viewers. Each fixture will feature six races where all 12 jockeys score points toward their franchise’s standings.

Female jockeys to be included in future

While the initial line-up includes only male riders, Fitt confirmed: “We look forward to welcoming the best female jockeys as we expand the league.”

Conclusion

The Global Racing League is an ambitious, athlete-led initiative poised to reshape the way horse racing is promoted and consumed. With jockeys as stakeholders and stars, and media-driven presentation at its core, the league may just be the spark needed to modernise racing for a new generation.

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Ten Players Confirmed to Leave Leinster Rugby at End of 2024/25 Season

JoeNa Connacht — Thu, 08 May 2025 07:46:46 +0000

Leinster Rugby Confirm Ten Departures Ahead of 2025/26 Season

Leinster Rugby have confirmed a significant squad reshuffle heading into the 2025/26 campaign, with ten players set to move on from the province at the conclusion of the current season.

Among the most high-profile exits is veteran prop Cian Healy, who will retire after a glittering career that saw him earn over 120 caps for Ireland and become a cornerstone of Leinster’s front row for more than 15 years. His departure marks the end of an era.

Ross Byrne, a mainstay at out-half in recent years, will join English Premiership outfit Gloucester Rugby, in a move that offers a fresh challenge after falling down the pecking order at both Leinster and Ireland level.

Michael Milne and Lee Barron will both make the switch to Munster Rugby, continuing the growing trend of interprovincial transfers. Milne, in particular, is seen as a valuable addition to Munster’s scrum depth.

Meanwhile, winger Rob Russell is linked with a potential move to Ulster or Connacht, though no confirmation has been made. The same applies to Rory Maguire, Ben Brownlee, Aitzol Arenzana-King, and Liam Turner, all of whom are exploring new opportunities with their destinations yet to be finalised. These younger players have largely featured in the Leinster academy system or as fringe squad members, and their departures may offer increased game time elsewhere.

One of the more unexpected developments is the status of Jordie Barrett, the New Zealand international who had been rumoured to be joining Leinster in 2024. However, reports now suggest that plans have changed and Barrett will no longer be linking up with the province, though his next move remains unconfirmed.

Full List of Leinster Rugby Departures (2025):

Cian Healy – Retiring
Ross Byrne – Gloucester Rugby
Michael Milne – Munster Rugby
Lee Barron – Munster Rugby
Rob Russell – Linked with Ulster or Connacht
Rory Maguire – Destination Unknown
Ben Brownlee – Destination Unknown
Aitzol Arenzana-King – Destination Unknown
Liam Turner – Destination Unknown
Jordie Barrett

This wave of departures opens the door for a new generation of Leinster talent to emerge, while also providing a reminder of the changing landscape of Irish rugby, where interprovincial and international moves are becoming more common.

As Leinster prepare for the 2025/26 season, fans will be watching closely to see how head coach Leo Cullen reshapes the squad, particularly in the wake of such significant experience exiting the setup.

Stay tuned to SportsNewsIRELAND.com for more Irish rugby transfer news and analysis.

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Louth v Meath: Underdog Louth Carry the Value in Historic Leinster Final at Croke Park

JoeNa Connacht — Thu, 08 May 2025 07:31:25 +0000

Louth v Meath: Underdog Louth Carry the Value in Historic Leinster Final at Croke Park

Date: Sunday, May 11

Time: 4:15pm

Venue: Croke Park, Dublin

Live on: RTÉ

Odds: Meath 4/6 | Louth 6/4 | Draw 13/2

Tip: Louth to win at 6/4 – the standout bet of the weekend

A classic Leinster rivalry returns to the big stage as Meath and Louth meet in the 2025 Leinster Football Final. With both counties bringing momentum and hunger to Croke Park, this promises to be one of the most eagerly anticipated provincial deciders in recent years.

Louth are 6/4 underdogs, despite a run of excellent form and a commanding 3-10 to 0-9 win over Meath in last year’s All-Ireland Round Robin. That result, combined with their defensive solidity this year, makes Louth the standout bet of the weekend.

Paths to the Final

Meath

Beat Carlow (1-30 to 0-19)
Beat Offaly (1-25 to 0-21)
Beat Dublin (0-23 to 1-16)

Louth

Beat Laois (2-16 to 0-17)
Beat Kildare (1-18 to 0-18)

Both sides are unbeaten en route to the final, with Meath’s win over Dublin catching the eye. But Louth have quietly gone about their business, winning two close encounters without conceding a goal.

Recent Championship Head-to-Head

2024: Louth 3-10 Meath 0-9 (All-Ireland Round Robin)
2017: Meath 0-27 Louth 3-9
2016: Meath 0-20 Louth 1-13
2011: Meath 5-8 Louth 2-8
2010: Meath 1-12 Louth 1-10 (Leinster Final)

Historical Leinster Final Meetings

2010: Meath 1-12 Louth 1-10
1952: Meath 1-6 Louth 0-8
1950 (Replay): Louth 3-5 Meath 0-13
1950 (Draw): Louth 1-3 Meath 1-3

Stats & Storylines

Louth are appearing in a third successive Leinster final for the first time since 1912-1914.
Their last Leinster title came in 1957, the year they also won the All-Ireland.
Meath haven’t won a Leinster title since 2010, when they last beat Louth in a final.
Louth beat Meath 1-19 to 0-17 in the 2025 Allianz League.
Both counties have conceded no goals on their path to the final.
Louth manager Ger Brennan won three Leinster titles as a Dublin player between 2009 and 2013.

Verdict: Louth to Deliver at 6/4

The form guide, recent head-to-heads, and defensive record all point toward a real upset in the making. Louth at 6/4 to win their first Leinster crown in 68 years is tremendous value. Back the Reds to deliver.

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