The 2026 NRL season officially kicked off with a historic double-header at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on March 1.

Early results have already set the tone, with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and Newcastle Knights securing statement wins on American soil.

The season ultimately peaks with the 2026 NRL Grand Final on Sunday, October 4, at Accor Stadium in Sydney. Currently, Round 24 of 27 is happening.

You can watch NRL in Ireland for free via 9Now, get full access via Watch NRL, or tune in through premium coverage on Sky Sports.

However, if you plan to stream NRL in Ireland through 9Now, you’ll need a VPN to bypass geo-blocks and access the free coverage securely.

Recommended VPN  - Surfshark

Your ISP, the Irish Government, and streaming platforms are Monitoring your Online Activity.

This means International Content staying Geo-blocked, Buffering, and even your entire Private Data can be Exposed to Third parties & Hackers.

Don’t take the risks…

Stay private, secure, & stream anything with Surfshark VPN for just $0.06/day!

With Surfshark You Can Get:
✅ 87% OFF + 3 EXTRA MONTHS FREE! (€1.99 /mo.)
✅ Access geo-blocked content worldwide.
✅ Unlimited connections 
✅ 30-day risk-free money-back guarantee
✅ Kill Switch to protect you if the VPN drops
✅ Verified No-logs policy
✅ Everlink technology which helps you stay connected even when server drops

Try Surfshark VPN

When & Where Is National Rugby League Happening?

• Date: March 1 to October 4,  2026
• Venue: Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, US
• Broadcasters: Watch NRL(International), Sky Sports (UK & Ireland), 9Now (Australia)

How to Watch National Rugby League in Ireland For Free

9Now is an Australian free-to-air service that provides free & live streaming of select NRL matches and a complete coverage of the Finale series games in 2026.

To watch the NRL for free from Ireland on 9Now, it’s necessary to use a VPN to bypass the service’s geo-restrictions outside Australia.

Here’s how to watch the National Rugby League in Ireland for free via 9Now:

Step 1: Subscribe to a safe VPN service (Surfshark is our #1 choice)

Step 2: Download and install the Surfshark VPN App on your device

Step 3: Connect to the Australia server.

Step 4: Visit 9Now and Click on Log in.

Step 5: Enter your email.

Step 6: Set up your account.

Step 7: Enter your information (e.g., email and postcode 2010).

Step 8: Click on Create Account

Step 9: Verify your account.

Step 10: Search for “NRL” and click on “NRL Premiership”

Step 11: Select the live match

Step 12: Enjoy streaming once the game goes live!

Try Surfshark VPN

Other Ways to Watch National Rugby League in Ireland

Here are the best services to watch the National Rugby League in Ireland.

1. Sky Sports (Premium)

Sky Sports is a major sports broadcaster in the UK and Ireland. It holds the official broadcasting rights for the NRL 2026 season in the region. The network will also air full coverage of the finals series and the Grand Finale 2026.

You can subscribe to Sky Sports for €37/month, or you can also access all 12 Sky Sports channels in HD on NOW with a Sports Extra plan for €17/mo.

Read More: How to Watch Sky Go in Ireland

2. Watch NRL (Premium)

Watch NRL is the official international streaming service for rugby league fans outside Australia. Here you can watch NRL matches live and on demand in Ireland with no blackouts.

The platform offers flexible plans: AUD $24/week, AUD $44/month, or AUD $229/year for full access with the option to stream on 2 devices simultaneously without any VPN needed.

National Rugby League 2026 Schedule

Here’s a schedule for NRL 2026 Week 24 to 26 in Irish Standard Time:

How to Watch NRL in Ireland on a Mobile Phone

You can watch the NRL in Ireland on Sky Sports Action and Sky Sports Main Event. The channel is available with the Now TV mobile app for Android and iOS devices.

Additionally, you can also install free sports streaming apps like Rapid Streamz or SportzX or simply enjoy every NRL game on free sports sites, like viprow.nu/ OR vipleague.pm/ via your phone browser.

However, a VPN like Surfshark is necessary to hide your identity with these free sports streaming apps and websites.

Here’s how to watch the NRL in Ireland via Now TV app:

Step 1: Download the Now TV app from the Play Store or APK

Step 2: Open the app and click on the sidebar

Step 3: Choose Sports Membership

Step 4: Select your plan and click Claim offer

Step 5: Click Checkout

Step 6: Create your account by clicking Continue to checkout or sign in with your existing one

Step 7: Enter your credentials

Step 8: Choose your payment plan and enter your credentials to subscribe. Enjoy streaming!

Other Sports to Watch in Ireland

If you are a sports enthusiast, you can also watch the following sports in Ireland:

• Watch UFC in Ireland
• Watch NHL in Ireland
• Watch French Ligue 1 in Ireland
• Watch CFL in Ireland
• Watch Major Soccer League in Ireland
• Watch WNBA in Ireland
• Watch Liga MX in Ireland

FAQs – NRL 2026

1. Does Ireland have a national rugby team?

Yes. The men’s national rugby league team of Ireland, known as the Wolfhounds, is run by Rugby League Ireland and competes internationally.

2. Where can I watch the NRL 2026 live?

The NRL 2026 broadcasts live on 9Now (Free) in Australia, with international streaming via Sky Sports (UK/IRE), SportsNet (Canada), and Fox Sports (US).

3. Can I watch the NRL 2026 for free in Ireland?

You can watch select NRL matches for free in Ireland on 9Now with ads, or Foxtel with a 10-day free trial for new users with Surfshark.

4. What devices can I stream NRL Final on?

Watch NRL works on PCs, tablets, phones, Apple TV, Chromecast, and smart TVs (up to two simultaneous streams). NOW (Sky Sports) is available through mobile apps, consoles, and smart TVs via Sky Go.

Conclusion

Australia’s biggest rugby league stage is set for another season, 2026 NRL kicked off on March 1, with the Knights taking on the Cowboys.

Irish fans can watch the National Rugby League through both free and premium options, including 9Now (Free with VPN), Watch NRL, and Sky Sports.

Recommended VPN  - Surfshark

Your ISP, the Irish Government, and streaming platforms are Monitoring your Online Activity.

This means International Content staying Geo-blocked, Buffering, and even your entire Private Data can be Exposed to Third parties & Hackers.

Don’t take the risks…

Stay private, secure, & stream anything with Surfshark VPN for just $0.06/day!

With Surfshark You Can Get:
✅ 87% OFF + 3 EXTRA MONTHS FREE! (€1.99 /mo.)
✅ Access geo-blocked content worldwide.
✅ Unlimited connections 
✅ 30-day risk-free money-back guarantee
✅ Kill Switch to protect you if the VPN drops
✅ Verified No-logs policy
✅ Everlink technology which helps you stay connected even when server drops

Try Surfshark VPN

When & Where are WNBA 2026 Happening?

• Date: Regular Season: May 8 – Sept. 24 | Playoffs: Sept. 27 – Oct. 30
• Venue: 15 home arenas across the US and Canada
• Games: Each team will play 44 games in the regular season.
• Streaming Platforms: Sky Sports, Prime Video, and WNBA League Pass.

How to Watch WNBA in Ireland 

Sky Sports is my top recommendation to watch the WNBA 2026 live in Ireland. It will live-broadcast all rounds.

You can watch the tournament on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Action, and Sky Sports+ from May 8 with the Sky Essential TV, Sky Sports & Sports Extra plan for €44/mo. 

Another way to catch all the action is by subscribing to the NOW TV Sports Extra plan for €33.99/mo (currently discounted to €17/mo).

Here’s how to watch WNBA in Ireland on Sky Sports:

Step 1: Go to Now TV‘s official website and click on Sports.

Step 2: Select any Sports Extra plan to access Sky Sports

Step 3: Enter your personal details to create a new account and pay to complete the subscription.

Step 5: Enjoy watching the WNBA live!

How to Watch WNBA in Ireland for Free

Stream every WNBA match on your mobile on free streaming apps like SportzX or RBTV+, by sideloading their APKs.

Alternatively, you can stream the WNBA via free sports websites like viprow.nu/ OR vipleague.pm/ directly through your browser.

However, these free streaming sources can be unreliable, so you must use a trusted VPN while streaming.

Follow these steps to watch the WNBA live for free in Ireland on mobile:

Step 1: Download and install the Surfshark VPN App. Connect to any server, e.g., France.

Step 2: Download and install RBTV+ APK

Step 3: Open the app and go to the Sports section

Try Surfshark VPN

2 Ways to Watch WNBA in Ireland

In addition to the above two streaming options, the WNBA games are also available on 2 more sports services in Ireland, including:

1. WNBA League Pass

WNBA League Pass is the official streaming service for basketball fans, providing access to every WNBA games live, except for 30 games that are blacked out live due to Prime Video exclusivity.

These games become available shortly after the live broadcast. You can also enjoy archived games from previous seasons starting from 2015.

You can get the League Pass annually for $39.99 or monthly for $14.99, giving you access to watch all the action on 3 simultaneous streaming devices.

2. Prime Video 

Prime Video, Amazon’s subscription-based streaming service, offers exclusive WNBA game coverage in Ireland for the 2026 season.

You can enjoy 30 exclusive games, featuring top matchups and star players from the league. Prime Video is available for €6.99/month, with a 30-day free trial for new subscribers.

Read More: Watch Prime Videos in Ireland

Schedule of WNBA 2026

Here is the WNBA schedule, listed in local Irish Time (GMT) and dates. Take a look.

Teams Of WNBA 2026

The WNBA features 15 teams, each representing cities across the United States. These teams compete fiercely for the coveted WNBA Championship.

Here are the Teams for the Eastern & Western conferences.

Other Sports Leagues to Watch in Ireland

If you’re a sports fan, here’s a list of top international sports leagues you can catch in Ireland.

• Watch UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 in Ireland
• Watch the Lions Tour in Ireland
• Watch the World Aquatics Championship in Ireland
• Watch the Tour de France in Ireland
• Watch the Belgian Grand Prix in Ireland
• Watch LIGA MX in Ireland
• Watch the Open Championship In Ireland

FAQs – WNBA

1. What WNBA teams no longer exist?

Legacy teams like the Houston Comets and Charlotte Sting are gone, but the league is growing again. The Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire just launched this year, joining last year’s newcomer, the Golden State Valkyries.

2. Who is the highest-paid WNBA player?

A’ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, and Kelsey Mitchell are the league’s top earners, each making $1.4 million this season. This record-breaking salary jump is thanks to the league’s new supermax contract structures.

3. Is there a 7-foot WNBA player?

Margo Dydek (7’2″) still holds the all-time record, though no 7-footers are currently active in the WNBA. However, the college game just welcomed Stephanie Okechukwu, a 7’1″ center at Texas Tech who is expected to be a future top pick.

4. How long is the WNBA season?

The 2026 regular season features 44 games per team, running from May 8th through September 24th. The schedule includes a short break in late August for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.

Conclusion

The 2026 WNBA season is in full swing began on May 8, 2026, offering exciting action with some of the league’s top players. The league is set to conclude on September 24, 2026.

You can enjoy live coverage of all the WNBA games in Ireland through various streaming platforms like the WNBA League Pass, Prime Video, Sky Sports, and free sports streaming app.

If you’re using free streaming methods, make sure to use a VPN like Surfshark to bypass geo-restrictions and enjoy uninterrupted access.

The North American hard-court swing wraps up with the Cincinnati Open, the last big test before the US Open, running from August 13 to August 23, 2026.

This year’s tournament returns to the newly expanded Lindner Family Tennis Centre in Mason, Ohio.

Following a massive campus transformation, the venue has doubled in size, allowing both the men’s and women’s singles draws to expand to a Grand Slam-sized field of 96 players.

Carlos Alcaraz enters as defending champion after his 2025 victory, while 2024 champion Jannik Sinner aims to reclaim the trophy in Mason.

You can watch the Cincinnati Open in Ireland on Sky Sports and Tennis TV or stream for free on the mentioned unofficial sports streaming app, using a VPN.

Cincinnati Open 2026 Key Dates & Timeline

• Qualifying: Tuesday, August 11 – Wednesday, August 12, 2026
• Main Draw Begins: Thursday, August 13, 2026
• Venue: Lindner Family Tennis Centre, Mason, Ohio

How to Watch the Cincinnati Open in Ireland Live

Sky Sports holds exclusive rights to the Cincinnati Open in Ireland, with live coverage across Sky Sports Tennis throughout the tournament.

You can watch every match on Sky Sports Tennis from August 11 with the Sky Essential TV, Sky Sports & Sports Extra plan for €44/mo.

Another way to catch all the action is by subscribing to the NOW TV Sports Extra plan for €33.99/mo (currently discounted to €17/mo).

Here’s how to watch the Cincinnati Open in Ireland on desktop:

Step 1: Go to Now TV‘s official website and click on Sports.

Step 2: Select any Sports Extra plan to access Sky Sports.

Step 3: Enter your personal details to create a new account and pay to complete the subscription.

Step 4: Enjoy watching the Cincinnati Open once live!

How to Watch the Cincinnati Open in Ireland for Free

Stream every match on your mobile on free streaming apps like SportzX by sideloading their APK. Or, you can stream the Cincinnati Open via free sports websites like soap2day.day OR myflixerfree.org/ directly through your browser.

However, these free streaming sources can be unreliable, so you must use a trusted VPN while streaming. Here’s how to watch the Cincinnati Open for free in Ireland on mobile:

Step 1: Download and install the Surfshark VPN App. Connect to any server, e.g., France.

Step 2: Download and install SportzX APK.

Step 3: Open the app and go to the Sports section

Step 4: Select Sky Sports

Step 5: Select Sky Main Event or Sky Sports Tennis.

Step 6: Start streaming once the Cincinnati Open is live!

Try Surfshark VPN

Watch Cincinnati Open in Ireland on Tennis TV

Tennis TV is the official live-streaming service for the ATP Tour, offering complete, uninterrupted coverage of the men’s draw at the 2026 Cincinnati Open.

Subscribers can stream every single men’s singles and doubles match live, or catch up later with full on-demand replays, classic matches, and highlights. A subscription to Tennis TV costs €16.99/mo or €124.99/yr.

To watch the women’s draw at the 2026 Cincinnati Open in Ireland via Tennis TV, you must connect to a VPN’s US server or tune into Sky Sports. Surfshark is the best VPN.

Cincinnati Open 2026 Schedule

Here is the live Sky Sports Tennis schedule for the Cincinnati Open, in Irish time.

Other Sports Events to Watch in Ireland

If you’re a tennis fan, here’s a list of other major sporting events you can watch in Ireland.

• Watch the US Open Tennis in Ireland
• Watch the FIFA Club World Cup in Ireland
• Watch the NBA in Ireland
• Watch NRL in Ireland

FAQs – Cincinnati Open 2026

1. What is the Cincinnati Open?

The Cincinnati Open is a combined ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 tennis tournament, one of only five events each year to host both top-tier men’s and women’s fields in the same week.

2. When and where is the 2026 Cincinnati Open?

The tournament runs from August 13-23, 2026 (qualifying August 11-12) at the Lindner Family Tennis Center in Mason, Ohio.

3. How can I watch the Cincinnati Open in Ireland?

Sky Sports holds exclusive rights to the Cincinnati Open in Ireland. You can stream every match through NOW’s Sports Membership, or via the Sky Go app if you’re already a Sky TV customer.

4. Are there any Irish players in the 2026 Cincinnati Open?

No Irish players feature in the 2026 main draws.

5. How many players compete in the Cincinnati Open?

Each of the men’s and women’s draws features 96 singles players, made up of seeded stars, direct entrants, wildcards, and qualifiers.

Conclusion

The 2026 Cincinnati Open tees off on August 13 and runs through August 23 at the newly expanded Lindner Family Tennis Centre in Mason, Ohio. Jannik Sinner leads the men’s field chasing the last piece of his 2026 Masters puzzle, while Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Świątek return to defend their titles.

You can watch Cincinnati Open in Ireland live on Sky Sports and Tennis TV or with a free alternative using a VPN. Surfshark is our #1 choice.

Birmingham makes history this August as the first British city to host the European Athletics Championships in the competition’s 92-year history.

The action takes place at the Alexander Stadium, the same venue that anchored the 2022 Commonwealth Games. The 27th European Athletics Championships run from  August 10 to 16, 2026.

This championship features 13 sessions across 26 disciplines producing 50 medal events, including 24 men’s, 24 women’s, and two mixed relays.

Expect fireworks from pole vault world record holder Armand Duplantis, Olympic 800m champion Keely Hodgkinson, and a strong field chasing continental glory.

When & Where Is European Athletics Championships 2026 Happening?

• Date: Monday, August 10 – Sunday, August 16, 2026
• Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom
• Athletes: Over 1,600 athletes (approximately 840 men and 805 women)
• Broadcasters: RTE Player (Free), TNT Sports and BBC iPlayer (Free in UK)

Free Way to Watch European Athletics Championships in Ireland 

As Ireland’s national public service broadcaster and an official EBU partner, RTÉ provides comprehensive free-to-air coverage of the European Athletics Championships.

Viewers in Ireland can follow key track and field sessions live on RTÉ 2 or stream coverage on demand via the RTE Player app and website. No VPN or subscription required.

Here’s how to watch the European Athletics Championships in Ireland:

Step 1: Go to RTÉ Player and click Login.

Step 2: Click Sign in 

Step 3: Enter your email address and Passward.

Step 4: Once logged in, go back to home and click on the Live tab at the top of the page

Step 5: Select RTE 2 and search for the European Athletics Championships and enjoy streaming!

How to Watch the European Athletics Championships in Ireland Live on TNT Sports

TNT Sports also carries live linear coverage of the Championships in Ireland, with localised commentary running alongside the HBO Max stream.

You can catch it by subscribing to the NOW TV Sports Membership. The NOW TV mobile app is available for Android and iOS devices in Ireland.

Here’s how you can watch the European Athletics Championships live on mobile phones:

Step 1: Download the Now TV app from the Play Store or APK

Step 2: Open the app and click on the sidebar

Step 3: Choose Sports Membership

Step 4: Select your plan and click Claim offer

Step 5: Enter your credentials and check out to subscribe. Enjoy streaming!

Watch European Athletics Championships in Ireland on BBC iPlayer

BBC iPlayer is broadcasting the Championships live and free across BBC One, BBC Two, and BBC iPlayer, as the host broadcaster covering every session of the week.

However, BBC iPlayer’s streaming content is geo-restricted to the UK. Therefore, you will need a reliable VPN, like Surfshark, connected to a UK server to access the platform and watch the Championships live.

What Sports Are Included in the 2026 European Athletics Championships?

Birmingham 2026 features a 26-discipline programme across track, field, and road events, producing 50 medal events at the Alexander Stadium and across the city streets for the marathons.

European Athletics Championships 2026 Schedule

Here is the schedule for key sessions of the Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships, in Irish time.

2026 European Athletics Championships Highlights to Watch For

The Birmingham Championships bring a few storylines Irish fans will want to follow closely:

Other Sporting Events to Watch in Ireland

If you’re a sports fan, here’s a list of other major sporting events you can watch in Ireland.

• Watch the Commonwealth Games in Ireland
• Watch the FIFA Club World Cup in Ireland
• Watch the NBA in Ireland
• Watch AFL in Ireland

FAQs – European Athletics Championships 2026

1. What are the European Athletics Championships?

The European Athletics Championships are a biennial track and field event held for athletes from European nations. First held in 1934, the 2026 edition is the 27th Championships.

2. When and where is the 2026 European Athletics Championships?

The Championships run from August 10 – 16, 2026 at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham, United Kingdom.

3. How can I watch the European Athletics Championships in Ireland?

RTE Player streams every event live and on demand in Ireland, with additional live coverage available on TNT Sports via a NOW TV Sports Membership.

4. Do I need a VPN to watch in Ireland?

No VPN is needed for HBO Max, TNT Sports, or RTE Player, as both are officially available in Ireland. A VPN is only required if you want to access the free BBC iPlayer stream from the UK.

5. How many events and disciplines are there?

The Championships feature 26 disciplines producing 50 medal events, including 24 men’s, 24 women’s, and two mixed relay events.

Conclusion

The Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships run from August 10 through August 16, marking the first time the UK has hosted the event. Expect fireworks from stars like Armand Duplantis and Keely Hodgkinson across a jam-packed week of track and field.

You can watch the European Athletics Championships in Ireland live on RTE Player, or for free on BBC iPlayer using a VPN. Surfshark is our #1 choice.

The 2026 Copa do Brasil is officially back, starting its massive 126-team journey on February 17. From local underdogs to world-class giants, the hunt for Brazil’s most prestigious cup is set to be a total rollercoaster.

The league is officially in its round of 16, scheduled for Aug 5 and Aug 6. You can watch Copa do Brasil in Ireland on Amazon Prime Video and Premier Sports with a paid subscription. 

Additionally, I’ve mentioned a couple of free sports streaming options to avoid premium subscriptions, so keep reading! However, using a trusted VPN is necessary to stream Copa do Brasil on Prime Video and free services. 

Recommended VPN  - Surfshark

Your ISP, the Irish Government, and streaming platforms are Monitoring your Online Activity.

This means International Content staying Geo-blocked, Buffering, and even your entire Private Data can be Exposed to Third parties & Hackers.

Don’t take the risks…

Stay private, secure, & stream anything with Surfshark VPN for just $0.06/day!

With Surfshark You Can Get:
✅ 87% OFF + 3 EXTRA MONTHS FREE! (€1.99 /mo.)
✅ Access geo-blocked content worldwide.
✅ Unlimited connections 
✅ 30-day risk-free money-back guarantee
✅ Kill Switch to protect you if the VPN drops
✅ Verified No-logs policy
✅ Everlink technology which helps you stay connected even when server drops

Try Surfshark VPN

When and Where is the Copa do Brasil Happening?

• Dates: February 17 to December 6, 2026
• Location: Different venues across all 26 Brazilian states and the Federal District.
• No. of Teams: 126
• No. of Groups: 92
• Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video (Brazil) and Premier Sports (Ireland) 

How to Watch Copa do Brasil in Ireland

Prime Video is a major broadcaster for the Copa do Brasil 2026. It holds exclusive rights in Brazil, streaming almost 50 matches, including from the opening round through the quarter-finals.

However, since the Copa do Brasil is exclusively available on Prime Video Brazil, you must connect to a reliable VPN to bypass geo-restrictions in Ireland.  In Ireland, the subscription costs €6.99/mo and includes a 30-day free trial for new users.

Here’s how you can watch Copa do Brasil in Ireland:

Step 1: Subscribe to a safe VPN service (Surfshark).

Step 2: Download and install the Surfshark VPN App on your device.

Step 3: Open the app and connect to Brazil’s server

Step 4: Go to the Amazon Prime website and click on the profile icon to sign in

Step 5: Enter your email

Step 6: Enter the password

Step 7: Add your payment method, credit card details, and continue your Free Trial

Step 8: You’ll be redirected to the Homepage

Step 9: Search for Copa do Brasil

Step 10: Enjoy streaming!

Try Surfshark VPN

Free Way to Watch Copa do Brasil in Ireland

You can stream Copa do Brasil 2026 live for free by sideloading apps like RapidStreamz, SportzX, or RBTV33. These apps offer access to live sports channels.

Alternatively, you can also try free sports websites like viprow.nu/ OR vipleague.pm/ by entering their URLs directly in your browser to stream live games.

However, streams on these sites are sometimes unstable or offer unwanted ads. Therefore, it is essential to use a premium VPN to enjoy free streaming without any interruptions.

Here’s how you can watch Copa do Brasil in Ireland:

Step 1: Download and install the Surfshark VPN App and connect to the French server.

Step 2: Download and install SportzX APK.

Step 3: Open the app and go to the Sports section

 Step 4: Select Premier Sports

Step 5: Select Premier Sports 2

Step 6: Start streaming once the Copa do Brasil is live!

Try Surfshark VPN

Watch Copa do Brasil in Ireland on Premier Sports

You can also watch Copa do Brasil 2026 on Premier Sports in Ireland. It is the official television home for South American football, offering select Copa do Brasil 2026 games, including semifinal and final matches from each round.

Meanwhile, in the Republic of Ireland, you can access Premier Sports with the Sky Sports Extra plan for €32/mo. Or else, you can watch the channel with the NOW TV Sports Extra plan for €17/mo.

Schedule of Copa do Brasil 2026

FAQs – Copa do Brasil 2026

1. When does the 2026 tournament start and end?

The tournament officially kicked off on February 17, 2026, with the opening phase. It is a long-haul competition that will run throughout the year, culminating in the grand finale on December 6, 2026.

2. How many teams are participating this year?

The 2026 edition features a record-breaking 126 teams. This expansion was designed to include more clubs from smaller state federations, making it the most inclusive version of the “Cup of the People” in history.

3. Does Amazon Prime Video show the matches in Ireland?

No. While Amazon Prime Video is an official broadcaster, its rights for the Copa do Brasil are region-locked to Brazil. To watch the cup legally in Ireland, you should stick with Premier Sports.

4. Who are the defending champions?

Corinthians entered the 2026 tournament as the defending champions after defeating Vasco da Gama in the 2025 final. As winners, they also earned a direct spot in the 2026 Copa Libertadores group stage.

Other Sports to Watch in Ireland

If you enjoy watching sports, we recommend some sports, including rugby:

• GAA Games
• FA Cup
• Liga MX
• EPL
• NBA All-Star Game

Conclusion

The 2026 Copa do Brasil is Brazil’s premier knockout tournament, featuring a record-breaking 126 teams competing in a nationwide “win-or-bust” format. This high-stakes competition will run from Feb 17 to Dec 6.

You can watch Copa do Brasil on Amazon Prime Video and Premier Sports. Additionally, I’ve mentioned free online sports streaming options to watch the Copa do Brasil in Ireland.

However, the mentioned services, except Premier Sports, require a trusted VPN, such as Surfshark, to bypass geo-restrictions and hide your streaming activities from the ISPs.

Recommended VPN  - Surfshark

Your ISP, the Irish Government, and streaming platforms are Monitoring your Online Activity.

This means International Content staying Geo-blocked, Buffering, and even your entire Private Data can be Exposed to Third parties & Hackers.

Don’t take the risks…

Stay private, secure, & stream anything with Surfshark VPN for just $0.06/day!

With Surfshark You Can Get:
✅ 87% OFF + 3 EXTRA MONTHS FREE! (€1.99 /mo.)
✅ Access geo-blocked content worldwide.
✅ Unlimited connections 
✅ 30-day risk-free money-back guarantee
✅ Kill Switch to protect you if the VPN drops
✅ Verified No-logs policy
✅ Everlink technology which helps you stay connected even when server drops

Try Surfshark VPN

When & Where is the MLS 2026 Happening?

• Date: Feb 21 to Nov 7, 2026
• The World Cup Pause: May 25 to July 16, 2026.
• Location: Multiple venues across Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal
• Platforms: Apple TV+

How to Watch Major League Soccer in Ireland 

Starting in 2026, the standalone MLS Season Pass has been discontinued and fully integrated into the standard Apple TV+ subscription. This means that Irish viewers no longer need to pay for an additional add-on.

For a monthly fee of approximately €9.99, subscribers in Ireland can stream every game live without regional blackouts, alongside exclusive studio programming like MLS 360.

Here’s how you can watch Major League Soccer in Ireland on Apple TV+:

Step 1: Visit Apple TV+ and click on MLS

Step 2: Click on Accept Free Trial

Step 3: Enter the email to sign in

Step 4: Enter the verification code sent to your email

Step 5: Enter your credit card details

Step 6: Confirm the subscription

Step 7: Enjoy live streaming!

Free Way to Watch Major League Soccer (MLS) in Ireland 

You can stream MLS 2026 live for free by sideloading apps like RapidStreamz, SportzX, or RBTV33. These apps offer access to live sports channels.

Alternatively, you can also try free sports websites like viprow.nu/ OR vipleague.pm/ by entering their URLs directly in your browser to stream live games.

However, streams on these sites are sometimes unstable or offer unwanted ads. Therefore, it is essential to use a premium VPN to enjoy free streaming without any interruptions.

Here’s how you can watch Major League Soccer in Ireland:

Step 1: Download and install the Surfshark VPN App and connect to the French server.

Step 2: Download and install SportzX APK.

Step 3: Open the app and search for the Major League Soccer matches listed.

Step 4: Start streaming when it’s live.

Note: If the match doesn’t appear here, you can select TSN from the sports section, as it is an official broadcaster of MLS.

Try Surfshark VPN

MLS Season 2026 Key Dates. 

MLS Schedule

Here is the Schedule of the upcoming matches of the MLS season 2026 in Irish timings:

Inter Miami’s Strong 2026 Season

As the 2026 MLS season officially begins, Inter Miami CF enters the year as the definitive team to beat after beating Vancouver for the 2025 title.

With Lionel Messi returning for another legendary run and head coach Javier Mascherano implementing a more aggressive and tactical approach, Miami isn’t just defending a title. They are looking to cement a league dynasty.

The roster has seen a major transformation this winter to compensate for the retirements of legends Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets. The club successfully utilised the “Messi Effect” to sign 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Dayne St. Clair.

Luis Suárez has also been crucial, scoring five goals and providing nine assists. Sergio Busquets continues to dominate in midfield with his vast experience, while rising star Benjamin Cremaschi has been recognised as one of the league’s top-selling jerseys.

Other Sports Leagues to Watch in Ireland

If you’re a sports fan, here’s a list of top international sports leagues you can catch in Ireland.

• Watch UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 in Ireland
• Watch the Lions Tour in Ireland
• Watch the World Aquatics Championship in Ireland
• Watch the MLB All-Star in Ireland
• Watch AFL in Ireland

FAQs – Major League Soccer (MLS)

1. What new teams are coming to the MLS in 2026?

While San Diego FC was the major expansion story of 2025 (setting records for the best inaugural season by an expansion club), no new expansion teams are joining in 2026. The league remains at 30 clubs.

2. How long does MLS last?

The MLS season typically runs from late February or early March until November, followed by the playoffs, culminating in the MLS Cup in early December.

3. What are the rule changes for the MLS in 2025?

The 2026 season introduces the most flexible Roster Rules in league history to help clubs compete globally. Clubs can now choose between two different spending models (the “Designated Player” model or the “U22 Initiative” model) to customise how they build their squads.

4. How does the MLS league work?

MLS operates with a regular season, divided into the Eastern and Western Conferences, followed by playoffs where the top teams compete for the MLS Cup.

5. Will Messi play in the 2026 MLS season?

Yes. In late 2025, Lionel Messi signed a contract extension that keeps him with Inter Miami CF through the end of the 2028 season. He is currently the focal point of the league as he leads Miami into their new stadium and prepares to captain Argentina in the 2026 World Cup.

Conclusion 

You can watch Major League Soccer (MLS) in Ireland via Apple TV+, which offers MLS Season Pass, or on free streaming services. 

However, you will need a VPN for a free method and for American streaming services in Ireland. We recommend Surfshark.

The wait is finally over for footy fans in Ireland as the AFL 2026 season officially kicks off with a massive “Opening Round” starting Thursday, March 5, 2026.

Anticipation has reached a fever pitch following an intense pre-season, and the tournament begins with a blockbuster clash between the Sydney Swans and Carlton at the SCG.

This season brings a historic change to the competition. For the first time, the league is debuting a 10-team AFL finals series. This new “Wildcard” structure allows more clubs to stay in the hunt for the premiership.

All the season’s drama leads to one massive event: the 2026 AFL Grand Final on Saturday, September 26. You can watch AFL in Ireland through free and premium services like 7Plus, Kayo Sports, Watch AFL, and TNT Sports.

However, 7Plus and Kayo Sports are unavailable due to geo-restrictions. Therefore, you’ll need a VPN to access them in Ireland.

Recommended VPN  - Surfshark

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When & Where is the AFL 2026 Happening?

• Date: March 5 to September 26, 2026
• Opening Match: Sydney Swans vs. Carlton
• Venue: Multiple venues across Australia
• Total Teams: 18
• Season Length: 23 matches per team over 25 rounds
• Where to Watch: 7 Plus (Free, Australia), Kayo Sports (Australia), Watch AFL (Overseas), and TNT Sports (UK & Ireland)

How to Watch AFL in Ireland for Free

7Plus is a leading Australian free streaming platform and an official broadcaster for AFL 2026, offering every match live throughout the season. 

Unfortunately, 7Plus is not available in Ireland due to geo-restrictions. To watch the AFL series live, you’ll need to use a reliable VPN to bypass these restrictions.

Here’s how to watch AFL in Ireland for free:

Step 1: Subscribe to a reliable VPN service (Surfshark is the best VPN)

Step 2: Download and install the Surfshark VPN App on your device

Step 3: Open the app and connect to the Australian server.

Step 4: Visit the 7Plus official website and click on the profile icon in the top right corner

Step 5: Click on Register to make a new account, or sign in

Step 6: Add your personal information and Australian zip code (0872) to create an account

Step 7: Verify your account via email

Step 8: Click on Sports in the top bar menu and select footy.

Step 9: Select an AFL match from the live & upcoming section.

Step 10: Enjoy watching when it goes live!

Try Surfshark VPN

Best Ways to Stream AFL in Ireland

1. Watch AFL 

Watch AFL is a subscription-based international service dedicated to Australian Football League games for fans living outside Australia.

2. TNT SPORTS

As the official broadcaster for the AFL 2026 season in the UK and Ireland, TNT Sports offers fans comprehensive coverage of every match from the Toyota AFL Premiership.

You can access TNT Sports on Sky, Virgin Media, EE, or NOW. A subscription to TNT Sports costs €32/mo. via Sky Ireland, and €17/mo. with the NOW TV Sports Extra plan.

Read More: Watch TNT Sports in Ireland

3. Kayo Sports

Kayo Sports is one of Australia’s leading sports streaming services, offering live and on‑demand coverage of major sports events, including the AFL 2026.

With a Kayo Sports subscription, you can watch every AFL match live, catch replays, highlights, and match bite‑sized clips known as Minis or 5-minute Bites. Premium Subscription is currently discounted as $1/month instead of $40/month.

However, the platform is not available in Ireland due to geo-restrictions. To watch the AFL series live on Kayo, you’ll need to use a reliable VPN, like Surfshark, to bypass these restrictions.

Read More: Watch Kayo Sports in Ireland

How To Watch AFL in Ireland on Mobile

In Ireland, the official way to stream the AFL is through TNT Sports, the primary series broadcaster for both the UK and Ireland. You can watch TNT Sports with the NOW Sports plan on its official app.

Here’s how you can watch AFL in Ireland on your mobile phone:

Step 1: Download the Now TV app from the Play Store

Step 2: Open the app and click on the sidebar

Step 3: Choose Sports Membership

Step 4: Select your plan and click Claim offer

Step 5: Click Checkout

Step 6: Create your account by clicking Continue to checkout or sign in with your existing one

Step 7: Enter your credentials

Step 8: Choose your payment plan and enter your credentials to subscribe. Enjoy streaming

Schedule of AFL 2026

Here is the AFL 2026 fixture from Week 22 of 24 converted to Irish Standard Time (IST):

Prominent Irish Players in the AFL 2026 Season

The “Irish Experiment” is stronger than ever in 2026. These athletes have successfully transitioned from Gaelic football to Australian Rules, becoming key contributors to their respective AFL clubs.

Other Sports to Watch in Ireland

You can also watch the following sports in Ireland:

• Watch MLB live in Ireland
• Watch MLS in Ireland
• Watch the FIFA Club World Cup in Ireland
• Watch the NBA in Ireland
• Watch NHL in Ireland

FAQ – AFL 2026

1. When does the AFL 2026 season start?

The AFL 2026 season officially began on Thursday, March 5, 2026, with the “Opening Round” match between the Sydney Swans and Carlton at the SCG. The traditional Round 1 begins the following week, on March 12, at the MCG.

2. How can I watch AFL live in Ireland?

You can watch every match live on TNT Sports via Sky or Now TV.

Conclusion

The AFL 2026 season kicks off on March 5 and will run through September 26, 2026. The season promises another exciting chapter in Australian football, with 18 teams battling it out.

You can watch AFL in Ireland via free & premium services like 7Plus, Watch AFL, Kayo Sports, and TNT Sports.

However, I recommend using Surfshark to unblock the geo-restricted services, like 7Plus and Kayo Sports.