Treaty United and Limerick FC resolve naming right dispute

Treaty United FC, Carew & Limerick FC have confirmed that the issues surrounding the return of Limerick FC to senior football in Ireland have been resolved. Pic: Diarmuid Greene/Sportsfile.

Treaty United FC, Carew & Limerick FC have confirmed that the naming right issues surrounding the return of Limerick FC to senior football in Ireland have been resolved.

Limerick FC recently denied claims from Treaty United that they have acquired the intellectual property associated with the Super Blues.

Treaty United FC had previously said all necessary formalities and approvals had been completed in relation to the agreement announced in June to acquire the intellectual property associated with Limerick FC and adopt the historic Limerick FC name from the beginning of the 2027 season.

But Limerick FC swiftly refuted those claims and said the ownership of Limerick FC and its intellectual property is currently the subject of an internal dispute.

But in a joint statement released on Friday afternoon, the clubs involved confirmed that the dispute has been resolved following positive talks.

"Treaty United FC, Carew & Limerick FC are pleased to confirm that, following positive and constructive discussions, the substantive matters between them concerning the return of the Limerick FC name to senior football have been resolved.

"The remaining practical transition steps will be completed cooperatively. The discussions reflect a shared ambition: to bring the football community together behind a strong, sustainable senior club that represents Limerick and the Midwest with pride.

"Treaty United wishes to pay particular tribute to Carew & Limerick FC for its contribution during an uncertain period in the history of Limerick football.

"Carew Park became a home for people determined to keep the Limerick FC legacy alive, maintain its connection with the community and work towards the day when the name would once again be represented at Senior League of Ireland level.

"That commitment required far more than a name or a badge. It took the time, belief and hard work of people who cared deeply about the club and its place in Limerick.

"Under the leadership of Mark Heffernan, David Dineen, Mike Aherne, Darran O'Shea, Mark Burton, and Jason O Connor, Carew's coaches, volunteers, players, parents, sponsors and supporters helped carry that ambition forward.

"Treaty United recognises their efforts and the pride with which they have represented the Limerick FC identity.

"Treaty United would also like to extend a sincere and special thank you to Carew & Limerick FC, and particularly Mark Heffernan, David Dineen and Mike Aherne, for the commitment, goodwill and support they have shown throughout this process and in helping bring matters to this positive point.

"Carew & Limerick FC thanks Ian McMahon, Chuck Cosman, Tricor Pacific Capital Inc. and the Treaty United Board for listening to its concerns and working through them in a respectful and constructive way.

"Carew also acknowledges the significant investment and long-term commitment being made to establish a sustainable future for senior football in Limerick. Both clubs wish to recognise the support shown for football across the city and region.

"Carew & Limerick FC extends particular thanks to Cllr Catherine Slattery and Willie O'Dea TD, as well as the many individuals, clubs and volunteers who have offered encouragement and support to Carew Park and the wider football community.

"The clubs believe this moment offers an opportunity to bring people together: those who supported Limerick FC in the past, those who have built and supported Treaty United, and those discovering the game through local clubs and youth football today.

"Each has a part to play in the next chapter. Treaty United and Carew & Limerick FC look forward to exploring future opportunities to collaborate, strengthen relationships and support player pathways and youth development.

"Further details will be announced in due course. Both clubs ask supporters and the wider community to come together behind the return of Limerick FC to senior football and help build a future worthy of the city's football history."