2026 Fitzpatrick Cup Delivers Thrilling University Footy in Belfast
BELFAST — Queen’s University Belfast played host to an unforgettable day of Australian Football on Saturday, February 28th, as the 2026 Fitzpatrick Cup brought together over 200 student-athletes from across the UK and Ireland. Contested at the Queen’s University GAA Fields, the tournament featured men’s and women’s teams competing in an action-packed day epitomised by the intense competition and remarkable sportsmanship.
This year’s edition featured six universities: hosts Queen’s University Belfast, University College Cork (UCC), University of Limerick (UL), Munster Technological University (MTU), Cardiff Metropolitan University, and the University of Birmingham.
Favouries Charge Through Men’s Bracket
The Senior Men’s competition produced outstanding football from the opening bounce. University College Cork (Red) set the early benchmark with dominant group-stage wins over UL (11.1.67–1.3.9) and host side Queen’s University (12.5.77–0.0.0). Munster Technological University (Red) proved equally impressive, securing strong early victories before controlling their quarter-final matchup against UL with a 7.5.47 to 2.1.13 performance.
Cardiff Metropolitan University and University of Limerick also made their presence felt, picking up crucial group-stage victories over UCC Blue and MTU Blue respectively to ensure a hard-fought knockout phase.
High-Scoring Drama in Women’s Competition
The Women’s bracket featured fast-paced, skilful footy across every round. University College Cork (Red) displayed clinical composure, recording preliminary wins over Birmingham (2.9.21–0.0.0) and Cardiff Met (2.2.14–1.2.8), before overcoming college mates UCC Black in a 6.1.37 to 4.5.29 semi-final clash.
Meanwhile, the University of Limerick mounted a formidable run of their own, overcoming UCC Black in the group stage (3.4.22–2.4.16) and putting on an attacking masterclass against Cardiff Met with a 6.2.38 to 1.5.11 semi-final win to secure their place in the title decider.
Celebration of University Footy
Beyond the scoreboard, the event highlighted the continued growth of university footy. Despite fierce on-field action, the day was defined by fair play, competitive spirit, and tremendous support from traveling fans and volunteers.
