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Pairc Ui Rinn Gets EUR2.5M Pitch Upgrade

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, January 22nd 2026 at 18:45 GMT by Irish Examiner
      Locale: IRELAND

Cork, Ireland - January 22nd, 2026 - Pairc Ui Rinn, the iconic home of Cork GAA, is poised for a significant upgrade with the announcement of a EUR2.5 million investment in a new, state-of-the-art Desso GrassMax pitch surface. The project, slated to commence in early 2026, represents a substantial commitment to player welfare and the enhancement of the playing experience for one of the province's most important sporting venues.

Pairc Ui Rinn, a cornerstone of Cork GAA culture, frequently hosts high-profile hurling and football matches, drawing significant crowds and contributing immensely to the region's sporting identity. The decision to invest in a new pitch surface underscores the importance placed on maintaining the stadium's quality and ensuring its suitability for the demands of modern Gaelic games.

What is Desso GrassMax?

The chosen surface, Desso GrassMax, isn't just a standard grass pitch. It's a technologically advanced hybrid system known for its superior performance and benefits. Unlike traditional grass pitches, GrassMax incorporates a unique combination of natural grass and artificial fibers woven together. This innovative design provides several key advantages:

• Enhanced Player Safety: The GrassMax system is designed to reduce player injuries by offering improved shock absorption and stability. The interwoven fibers dramatically reduce divot formation and pitch instability, minimizing the risk of ankle and knee injuries - a critical consideration given the physicality of Gaelic games.
• Improved Playing Surface: The hybrid surface provides a more consistent and predictable playing surface, regardless of weather conditions. This uniformity enhances ball bounce and allows for faster, more fluid gameplay. It also significantly reduces the impact of heavy rain or prolonged sunshine on pitch quality, maintaining optimal playing conditions.
• Durability & Longevity: Desso GrassMax pitches are renowned for their durability and longevity, requiring less maintenance and offering a longer lifespan compared to traditional grass surfaces. This contributes to long-term cost savings and minimizes disruption to the sporting schedule.

Funding the Upgrade: A Collaborative Effort

The substantial EUR2.5 million cost of the project won't be borne by a single entity. The financial responsibility will be shared amongst Cork GAA, the Munster GAA Council, and a government grant. This collaborative funding model demonstrates the widespread recognition of the project's importance and the shared commitment to improving Gaelic games infrastructure.

Cork GAA officials have emphasized the significance of the government grant in making the upgrade feasible, highlighting the importance of national investment in grassroots sports facilities. The involvement of Munster GAA underscores the regional importance of Pairc Ui Rinn and its role in hosting significant inter-county matches.

Looking Ahead: A New Era for Pairc Ui Rinn

The new pitch is expected to be fully operational and ready for the commencement of the 2026 season. This timeline allows for the necessary construction and acclimatization period, ensuring the surface is at its peak performance level when players and fans return.

This upgrade signals a renewed commitment to Pairc Ui Rinn's place at the heart of Cork GAA and reinforces its reputation as a premier sporting venue. The Desso GrassMax surface will undoubtedly contribute to a safer and more enjoyable experience for players and supporters alike, paving the way for a new era of Gaelic games at this iconic location. Local sporting enthusiasts and wider communities eagerly anticipate the transformation and the enhanced performance levels it promises to deliver. Furthermore, the success of this project could serve as a template for other GAA grounds across Ireland, demonstrating the benefits of investing in cutting-edge pitch technology.