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John Kiely is staying on to lead Limerick’s All-Ireland defence

Published 13:59 12 Sept 2026 BST

Vese Hyseni
John Kiely is staying on to lead Limerick’s All-Ireland defence

Homesport

John Kiely’s record breaking Limerick tenure will continue

Limerick have opted for continuity as they prepare to defend their All-Ireland hurling crown, with John Kiely set to remain in charge for the 2027 season.

The county board confirmed that the long-serving manager will continue in the role, with an option available to keep him on for an additional year after the upcoming campaign. 

His extension will still need to be formally approved by delegates at the Limerick County Board's October meeting.

Kiely's next season will mark a remarkable 11 years managing the Treaty men. In an era when inter-county managers rarely stay in the job for so long, his tenure has become an exceptional example of longevity.

He took charge in September 2016 after replacing TJ Ryan, beginning a transformation that would turn Limerick into one of the dominant forces in hurling.

Since then, the county has won six All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championships, eight Munster titles and four Allianz Hurling Leagues. Their latest All-Ireland success came last July, when Limerick overcame Galway to add another title to Kiely's record.

Limerick are putting their faith in the man behind their success

Limerick GAA chairman Seamus McNamara said the manager's continued presence was a major positive for the county.

"John, his management team and players have brought so much positivity to the county and we are delighted that he will remain at the helm for 2027," McNamara said.

The rest of Kiely's coaching and backroom staff will be announced at a later date, according to the county board.

For now, though, Limerick have settled one of the biggest questions surrounding their preparations for next season: the man who has overseen their remarkable run of success will be back on the sideline as they attempt to retain the All-Ireland title.