Johnny Ward

Once labelled the “difficult child” of Irish football, the League of Ireland is now attracting record crowds and huge interest. Drawing on numerous interviews with decision-makers, owners, and managers, this is the story of how domestic football was rehabilitated.

Less than a decade ago, Dundalk FC became only the second Irish team to qualify for group-level combat in European football. Last week, after failing to secure investment, its owner confirmed it was experiencing financial difficulty. What went wrong?

An examination of the accounts of the major League of Ireland football clubs reveals growing wage bills and mounting losses. Those in the game are worried that the numbers are unsustainable.

David Power, the co-founder of Paddy Power who died this week, went to his grave loyal to his customers, even those who left him with debts unpaid. Here, friends, colleagues and members of the racing community reflect upon the man and his legacy.

Ciarán Cannon's decision not to run again was quickly eclipsed by the resignation of Leo Varadkar this week. In an in-depth interview, the Fine Gael TD reflects on his choice and that of his party leader.

For the past five years, Sarah Merrigan has built a business importing the best Spanish oils to Ireland. But as Irish demand grows and becomes more discerning, climate change has decimated Spanish supply.

Irish owners and trainers now dominate the UK's top racing festival on a regular basis. But as attendance falls and the sport falters in Britain, will they still have a stage to perform on?

Experts warn of long-term shifts in the conditions that have made Ireland outperform in the global food chain. Can the industry adapt?

Trainer Aidan O’Brien was born with an appreciation of horses that defies teaching. But his unrivalled success is rooted in attention to detail, determination, and family values. He talks about pressure, family, and the genius of John Magnier.

The football manager who deviated from the norm of Ireland players being told of their limitations had tried to inculcate in them a belief that we could beat the best. In the end, we could not beat New Zealand.