Ben O'Connor's Cork reign to begin against Waterford as 2026 hurling and football league schedule confirmed

O’Connor’s tenure will begin with a home fixture against the Déise on Sunday, January 25, the same day the footballers host Cavan.

HOMECOMING: Cork manager Ben O'Connor will begin his reign against Waterford. Pic: Ben McShane/Sportsfile.

The Cork hurlers won't have to wait long for their opening shot of 2026 redemption against Tipperary as the two All-Ireland finalists will collide in Round 3 of the Allianz League on Saturday, February 7.

Cork’s confirmed League programme for 2026 shows Ben O’Connor’s tenure will begin with a home fixture against Waterford on Sunday, January 25 (3.45pm start), followed a week later by a trip to Salthill to face Galway.