Katie Taylor Champions Lidl Women’s Sport Campaign As She Address Croker 'Dream' Swansong

The Bray woman was speaking at Croke Park where she also outlined her dream farewell in front of adoring home fans

When it comes to inspiring a generation of female athletes in Ireland, Katie Taylor stands unmatched.

The Bray-born, Wicklow wonder isn’t just a boxing legend—she’s a trailblazer whose influence stretches far beyond the ring.

Taylor’s career has redefined what Irish sportswomen can achieve, and now she’s using her platform to ensure that the talent, skill, and dedication of women’s sports are finally seen, celebrated, and valued.

Speaking at the launch of the 2026 Lidl National Football League at Croke Park, Taylor put her weight behind Lidl Ireland’s new campaign, “Greatness Deserves to Be Seen”, aimed at showcasing Ladies Gaelic Football.

“Greatness was never missing, it’s just been missed,” she said. “Visibility matters. When young girls see women competing, winning, and being celebrated on the biggest stages, it changes what they believe is possible for themselves. Representation creates belief.”

She also addressed her own future in the ring, and as she enters the final furlong in her glittering boxing career, the Bray Bomber revealed that she may well hang up the gloves as reiterated her desire to sign off at GAA HQ.

She said: “This is my last year, probably, in the ring boxing. I’m going to be 40 this year.

 “I would love to end my career here. And I would absolutely love to have an opportunity to fight here in Croke Park. That would be the icing on the cake for me. That would be an absolute dream come true.”

She added:

“Whoever the opponent is, I want to end my career on a high here in the country that I love and the country that I’ve represented throughout my whole career. I love Ireland.

“I’m living in Connecticut obviously over the last few years and it makes me appreciate Ireland even more. I love being at home. I love my country. I love the people that I’m surrounded by.

“I just love the Irish people and I would love to bring a big night back to Ireland again in the ring.”

Taylor also emphasised the responsibility she feels as a role model.

“As a role model for other female athletes, I take my responsibility very seriously and I’m proud to use my platform to support others.”

She highlighted the need for consistent attention and support: “Irish women’s sport is full of extraordinary talent, and the more we invest our time, attention, and support, the stronger and more successful it becomes.”

The campaign coincides with Lidl Ireland’s renewed commitment to the LGFA, extending their partnership to 2030 and adding €7.5 million in funding to the women’s game, bringing total investment to €22.5 million since 2016. Taylor stressed that initiatives like this aren’t just about money—they’re about cultural change.

Katie Taylor - Lidl Press Conference Jan '26 - (Sportsfile)

“The research shows we have a challenge in advancing support for women’s sport—through tackling perceptions, increasing coverage, and giving the game and its players a platform to showcase what they can really do. That’s what I love about this new campaign and the ethos behind it.”

Recent studies show the impact of role models like Taylor: 83% of the Irish public believe she has paved the way for future sports stars, while 52% tune in whenever she competes.

Yet, despite growing interest, inequality persists—particularly in media coverage, where women’s sport is vastly underrepresented.

The “Greatness Deserves to Be Seen” campaign directly addresses this, using Lidl’s TV platforms to highlight the skill, brilliance, and dedication of LGFA players. Taylor’s voice and advocacy underscore that visibility isn’t symbolic—it drives real cultural change.

“Greatness was never missing. It’s just been missed. Irish women’s sport deserves to be seen, valued, and celebrated on the biggest stages, and that’s exactly what this campaign aims to do.”

20 January 2026 - Croke Park - 2026 Lidl Ladies National Football League - Katie Taylor (Sportsfile-Sam Barnes).jpg