Alongside the announcement, a new team of ambassadors has been introduced, including Olympic gold medal-winning rower Fintan McCarthy, Irish multi-event athlete Kate O’Connor, Paralympic swimmer Róisín Ní Riain, and Paralympic table tennis player Colin Judge.

Supporting grassroots development

With preparations underway for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the SPAR and EUROSPAR Community Fund will provide financial support to 30 sports clubs across Ireland.

The initiative aims to strengthen grassroots sport by helping clubs access essential resources, improve facilities, and develop future talent within their communities. Clubs are invited to apply by demonstrating how they are ‘Hungry for Success’, showcasing their commitment, ambition, and plans for growth.

Applications for the Community Fund 2026 are now open and will close on 8 July 2026. Following a judging process, successful applicants will be invited to attend award events taking place throughout July and August.

Inspiring communities through sport

The initiative builds on SPAR and EUROSPAR’s long-standing commitment to supporting sport at both grassroots and elite levels, while promoting healthy lifestyles and community engagement.

“We are incredibly proud to see our partnership with Team Ireland continue to evolve in 2026. The launch of the SPAR and EUROSPAR Community Fund reflects our belief in the power of sport to inspire and unite communities. By investing €60,000 in 30 clubs nationwide, we are supporting grassroots development and helping to build stronger, healthier communities across Ireland.  Our retailers, who are at the heart of local communities, are excited to support this initiative and encourage clubs to show how they are ‘Hungry for Success,’” said BWG Group Chief Executive John Moane.

More information, including how to apply, is available here.

Read more SPAR Ireland news.

About SPAR Ireland

SPAR is part of the leading retail and wholesale company BWG Foods UC, and is one of Ireland’s largest convenience retail groups and has been serving communities in Ireland for over sixty years. From the time it opened its first store in Dublin in 1963, SPAR has been a leader in Irish convenience retailing, bringing consumers the most innovative products and instore offerings. Independent retailers operating under license increase the retail network, either under the SPAR or EUROSPAR retail formats.