League of Ireland final night draws record television figures

The dramatic conclusion to the Premier Division title race reached a televised audience peak of over 400,000.

RECORD FIGURES: Shelbourne manager Damien Duff celebrates after winning the title. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

RTÉ have announced that the dramatic conclusion to the 2024 Premier Division title race reached a televised audience peak of over 400,000 to becoming the most-watched moment in the history of the League of Ireland.

Harry Wood was the hero for Shelbourne on the night as his 85th minute winner away at Derry City snatched the title from Shamrock Rover's grasp and ensured it would return to Tolka Park for the first time since 2006.

The Irish broadcaster confirmed on Monday that an average of 206,000 watched the game on RTÉ2 with record figures for the League of Ireland tuning in on the RTÉ Player.

It was also stated that the numbers do not include five-in-a-row chasing Shamrock Rovers' home fixture with Waterford, which was available to watch simultaneously on the RTÉ News channel.

The audience share of 19% is also even more significant considering the All-Star awards were shown live on RTÉ One from 7pm until 9pm.

There is still one match remaining in the League of Ireland season though as Derry City take on Drogheda United in the FAI Cup final, with coverage from the Aviva Stadium beginning on RTÉ 2 from 2pm.