What is the Team Ireland Foundation?
The Team Ireland Foundation is a philanthropic initiative of the Olympic Federation of Ireland. It supports athletes beyond core funding by focusing on performance, welfare, and community. The Foundation operates under the Charities Act and tax relief can be sought in relation to donations to the Foundation made in the Republic of Ireland.
Who runs the Team Ireland Foundation?
The day to day running of the Team Ireland Foundation is managed by the Olympic Federation of Ireland.
Where exactly do donations go?
Donations to the Team Ireland Foundation go towards three areas:
- Games Delivery: Supporting athletes in the immediate build up to and during the LA28 Olympic Games.
- Athlete Excellence: High impact interventions made in the 24-48 months before the LA28 Olympic Games.
- Community Legacy: Ensuring the LA28 Olympic Games have a lasting impact in communities all around Ireland.
Support is open to athletes and NGBs on an annual basis. Applications are reviewed by an expert panel and approved by the Foundation Board. Donors receive impact reports to illustrate the effectiveness of their support.
Why do we need to fund athletes who already receive funding from Sport Ireland?
The Team Ireland Foundation complements, rather than duplicates, existing support. It funds future-focused initiatives, including innovation, wellbeing, and long-term development.
Can I claim tax relief on donations?
Yes – tax relief may be claimed by donors on donations made up to the 1st September 2028 to support either of the following two projects approved by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport on 23rd October 2025 under the terms of Section 847AA of the Taxes Consolidation Act.
- Team Ireland’s Youth Performance Athlete Project supporting Irish Olympic hopefuls of the future. Approved Project Number R-11-34-45.
- Team Ireland’s Senior Elite Athlete Project supporting elite athletes in achieving excellence in Competitive Sport. Approved Project Number R-11-34-46.
