The scheme, run by Valero Energy Ireland - the company behind the Texaco fuel brand in Ireland - will award 26 sports clubs €5,000 each, with one winning club selected from every county.
For local communities, grassroots sport is often the beating heart of towns and villages across the country. From GAA and soccer clubs to swimming, cycling and athletics groups, many organisations rely heavily on fundraising and sponsorship to maintain facilities, buy equipment and encourage participation.
Since its launch, the Texaco Support for Sport programme has distributed more than €600,000 to over 125 clubs nationwide, helping organisations of all sizes invest in their future.
What clubs can apply for Texaco Support for Sport?
One of the key attractions of the initiative is its broad eligibility criteria. Clubs can apply regardless of their sporting discipline, membership size, gender profile or competitive success.
Previous recipients have represented a wide range of sports, including rugby, soccer, GAA, camogie, hurling, cycling, rowing, boxing, swimming, golf, gymnastics and kayaking, along with several smaller and emerging sports.
How does Texaco Support for Sport benefit local communities?
Announcing this year's scheme, James Twohig, Director of Ireland Operations at Valero Energy Ireland, said sports clubs are “an integral part of communities across Ireland, where people of all ages can enjoy the many physical, social and personal benefits that sport brings.”
Former Irish rugby international and broadcaster Donncha O'Callaghan will once again oversee the adjudication process as the initiative's ambassador.
According to O'Callaghan, the programme gives every club an equal opportunity to secure funding, regardless of size or sporting background, while providing valuable financial support.
He said, “I’m looking forward to reviewing the 2026 applications and seeing how clubs plan to use this funding to improve facilities, encourage greater participation and strengthen their role within their local communities."
How can sports clubs apply for Texaco Support for Sport?
Applications are now open through the Texaco Support for Sport website. To qualify, clubs must be properly constituted and hold a valid Games and Sports Exemption (GS) Number listed by the Revenue Commissioners. The application deadline is 21 January 2027, and judging will take place shortly afterwards.
If there is anything about this story we have not covered, you can avail of our expert advice service via the Ask Us Anything page.