Re-entry into football's top-tier must only be the beginning for Kildare

So, while the verdict on this year of rehabilitation came back as expected, the jury remains out on the inroads and impact Kildare can make when returning to football’s upper echelons in 2026.

Kildare manager Brian Flanagan celebrates with his children Tadhg, age three, and Amelia, age four. Pic: Seb Daly/Sportsfile

Tailteann Cup final: Kildare 1-24 (1-4-16) Limerick 2-19 (2-1-17)  

Saturday confirmed what we all suspected since the throw-in of the 2025 season. This is not Kildare’s level. They are not a Division 3 League outfit. They are not a tier two championship side.