Ireland may be a small nation, but we’re a great one… especially when it comes to creating sporting superstars. Over the years, the Emerald Island has produced some incredible athletes – and a few famous animals that have left a huge mark on the sporting world.
Here, we look at some of the very best…
1. Roy Keane
Roy Keane, originally from Cork, is considered to be one of Ireland’s best-ever footballers and is known by everyone, even those who aren’t fans of footie. Known for his tenacity, leadership skills, and fiery personality (some might say temper), he was the heart and soul of The Man U squad when they were at the top of their game under Sir Alex Ferguson.
With them, he won seven Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and a UEFA Champions League trophy in 1999 – and he was the epitome of the Irish fighting spirit. Since retiring as a player, his unique personality, sharp wit and unapologetic views have seen him become a successful manager and pundit.
2. Katie Taylor
There are few names that shine brighter in Irish sport than boxer Katie Taylor. Born in Bray, County Wicklow, she transitioned from having an excellent amateur career to becoming one of the best pro boxers in the world. She won gold in the lightweight division at the 2012 London Olympics – making her name as a boxing superstar.
After turning professional, she’s won many world titles across divisions and is considered by many to be one of the greatest pound-for-pound boxers of her time.
3. Brian O’Driscoll
Brian O’Driscoll is a legend of Irish rugby. Born in Dublin, he played centre for Ireland and the British and Irish Lions… and earned no less than 133 caps for his country. His leadership and skill have helped Ireland win numerous Six Nations titles, including that legendary Grand Slam in 2009.
To this day, he’s still Ireland’s all-time leading try-scorer and is considered by many rugby fans to be one of the best rugby players of all time
4. Rachael Blackmore and Honeysuckle
If you’re someone who regularly makes horse racing bets, the name Rachael Blackmore won’t have passed you by. She made history as the first female jockey to win the Grand National in 2021, but it’s been her partnership with the legendary mare Honeysuckle that’s been truly iconic.
Together, they have dominated National Hunt racing… and Honeysuckle has become one of the most renowned horses in the sport. Trained by Henry de Bromhead, this is a horse that’s enjoyed all sorts of wins – including the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham and various Grade 1 races. Blackmore’s achievements as a female jockey… and Honeysuckle’s sheer brilliance are testament to Ireland’s famous horse racing prowess.
5. George Best
How can we talk about Irish sporting stars without mentioning Georgie Best? Although he was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, he is still considered an Irish icon. Seen by many footie fans as possibly one of the most naturally gifted footballers ever, he was a charismatic winger who amazed the world with his incredible dribbling skills and creativity.
During his time at Manchester United, he won the European Cup in 1968 and the Ballon d’Or the same year. He had a flair and talent that made him a footballing icon who will be remembered forever.
6. Sonia O’Sullivan
Sonia O’Sullivan is one of Ireland’s top athletes of all time. Originally from Cobh, County Cork, she was the biggest name in middle-distance running throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. She won a silver medal in the 5000 meters at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and won plenty of World and European titles during her long and impressive career. Her achievements really catapulted Ireland’s reputation on the international athletics stage.
7. Conor McGregor
We have to finish the list with Mr McGregor… as there haven’t been many Irish athletes who have managed to capture as much attention all over the world as Conor McGregor. Born in Dublin, he completely revolutionized MMA – and was the first fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two weight classes at the same time.
With his unapologetic persona that matched his explosive fighting style, he became a worldwide phenomenon and brought MMA into the mainstream. He may have been the centre of various controversies, but his influence on the sport can’t be denied – and when you think of MMA, you think of Conor McGregor!
