Sigerson and Fitzgibbon Cup finals to return to Croke Park after 40 years

Electric Ireland Sigerson and Fitzgibbon Cups will return to Croke Park for the first time in 40 years this February. Pic: Shauna Clinton/Sportsfile.

The GAA Higher Education committee have announced that the finals of the Electric Ireland Sigerson and Fitzgibbon Cups will return to Croke Park for the first time in 40 years this February.

It was back in 1985 (Sigerson) and 1986 (Fitzgibbon) that the prestigious Higher Education deciders were last hosted at the headquarters of GAA.

But on Monday it was confirmed that both the Sigerson Cup final, which is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11th, at 7:35pm and the Fitzgibbon Cup final, which will be played on Friday, February 13th, at 7:35pm, will take place at Croke with both showpiece events being broadcast live on TG4.

“It is with great pride and delight that I welcome the historic return of the Sigerson and Fitzgibbon Cup finals to Croke Park in 2026, over four decades since these iconic competitions last graced the spiritual home of Gaelic Games,” said Benny Hurl, the Chairperson of the GAA Higher Education committee.

"This announcement is about more than a fixture. It is a recognition of the extraordinary commitment, talent, and passion that our student players bring to the field year after year.

"It is a celebration of the role that third level institutions play in nurturing the future of our games, developing the next generation of Gaelic Games players, officials and administrators.

"On behalf of the everyone in third level Gaelic Games, I extend our heartfelt thanks to the GAA and the Croke Park team for their support in making this dream a reality.

"I want to pay special thanks to Uachtarán CLG Jarlath Burns, himself a Sigerson cup winner with Saint Mary’s Belfast, who has given unrivalled support to Comhairle Ardoideachais.

"This decision sends a powerful message, that the efforts of everyone in third level are valued and appreciated. For many years, these prestigious competitions, cornerstones of our student sporting calendar have showcased the passion, talent, and dedication of our players.

"To see the finals of our blue riband competitions taking centre stage in Croke Park is not only a symbolic homecoming, but a powerful recognition of the vital role third level Gaelic Games plays in the fabric of the GAA.

"To our sponsors Electric Ireland, all our colleges, players, coaches, administrators, GPOs, volunteers, and supporters, anyone who has helped in the past to promote our sector, thank you for your unwavering commitment and support.

"This moment belongs to you. Let us celebrate it with pride, passion, and the spirit of community that defines Gaelic Games at third level.

"We are ready to honour the legacy of those who came before us and to inspire the next generation.

"We look forward to all our championships and the entire week of Féile Comhairle Ardoideachais, kindly hosted this year by DCU. We wish all our participating teams the very best of luck.”