Kiely's remarkable Treaty tenure continuing

Limerick manager John Kiely celebrates with the Liam MacCarthy Cup after his team's win over Galway ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne

John Kiely’s confirmed stay as Limerick senior hurling manager for an eleventh campaign bodes extremely well for the Liam MacCarthy Cup holders.

It’s exactly ten years since Kiely succeeded TJ Ryan at the Treaty County helm and he has since completely transformed Limerick’s fortunes, in the process establishing himself as one of the GAA’s all-time great intercounty managers.

The inspirational Kiely has led Limerick to a whopping six All-Ireland titles in ten years, bringing their total haul to 13 (not to mention eight Munsters and four leagues). The breakthrough came at the second attempt in 2018, when Galway were beaten in the final and the gap back to 1973 famously bridged.

Further All-Irelands were scooped in 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 as Limerick became hurling’s dominant force. The McCarthy Cup was regained this year, with another historic Croke Park win over Galway.

Limerick GAA confirmed on Friday that their most successful manager ever is staying on for an eleventh season, with the option of remaining for another. The Shannonsiders will start 2027 as favourites for the win that would see Kiely draw level with Kilkenny’s Fr Tommy Maher in second place on the all-time Roll of Honour with a haul of seven All-Irelands, behind only Brian Cody (11).

A Limerick statement confirmed: “Limerick GAA can confirm that Limerick senior hurling manager John Kiely is to continue in his role for the 2027 season with an option to extend for a further season thereafter. The remainder of his management and backroom team will be confirmed in due course. The extension is subject to ratification by delegates at the October meeting of the Limerick County Board.”