Limerick City and County Council’s Local Authority Integration Team (LAIT), in partnership with Limerick Sports Partnership and Limerick City Partnership, has concluded the 2026 Intercultural IPAS Tournament, a multi-week soccer competition that brought together residents from International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) centres across Limerick.
Following the success of the one-day Intercultural Soccer Tournament held in 2025, the initiative was expanded this year into a six-week tournament, providing participants with regular opportunities to engage in sport, build friendships and strengthen community connections.
The 2026 tournament featured six teams representing five IPAS centres across Limerick. Matches took place over six Saturdays throughout April and May, fostering teamwork, healthy competition and social inclusion among players from diverse cultural backgrounds.
The tournament culminated in an exciting final at Shelbourne Park on Saturday, 13 June, kicking off Irish Refugee Week (June 15 to June 21) in Limerick. Two teams from Knockalisheen IPAS centre competed in the final, with Knockalisheen Team 2 emerging victorious.
The event celebrated not only sporting achievement but also the positive role sport can play in bringing people together, promoting intercultural understanding and creating welcoming communities.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran described congratulated all involved, saying:
"The Intercultural IPAS Tournament is a wonderful example of how sport can help create connections, break down barriers and foster a strong sense of belonging. The competition demonstrates Limerick's commitment to building inclusive communities where everyone has the opportunity to participate, contribute and thrive. I congratulate all of the players, organisers and volunteers who made this year's tournament such a success."
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery added:
"This tournament has brought people together from different backgrounds and cultures in a spirit of friendship, respect and healthy competition. It has been fantastic to see the enthusiasm and commitment shown by all the teams over the past six weeks. Initiatives like this help strengthen community ties and reflect the welcoming and inclusive values that are so important across Limerick."
Director of Service, Regeneration, Community, Sport and Rural Development, Brian McCarthy commented:
"The Intercultural IPAS Tournament has shown the power of sport to connect people, build confidence and create meaningful relationships across communities. Expanding the tournament from a one-day event to a six-week competition allowed participants to develop stronger bonds and enjoy regular opportunities for engagement. We are delighted with the success of this year's tournament and grateful to all the players, volunteers, partners and supporters who helped make it such a positive and inclusive experience."
Building on the success of the tournament, LAIT plans to continue organising friendly matches and sporting activities for new communities across Limerick, including initiatives for children and young people. The team also aims to strengthen links between participants and local amateur soccer clubs to support longer-term involvement in community sport.
LAIT would like to thank all participating teams, partners, volunteers and supporters who contributed to the success of the tournament and helped create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for everyone involved.
