Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has announced a £2 million funding package for sports clubs in Northern Ireland through the Olympic Legacy Fund for 2026/27. The announcement was made during a visit to Larne Rugby Football Club.

The fund was established last year and has already invested more than £2.1 million in 81 grassroots sports clubs. Clubs, members and communities generated over £1 million in additional financial contributions through crowdfunding.

The Olympic Legacy Fund is delivered by Sport NI in partnership with Crowdfunder UK. Richard Archibald, interim chief executive of Sport NI, said last year's fund provided new sports equipment and supported improvements such as resurfaced playing areas, floodlights, spectator stands and upgraded clubhouse facilities.

Applications are now open, with two opportunities to apply. One application window is live now and another will open in November. Sport NI and Crowdfunder UK will host a webinar at noon on Tuesday, 29 September to provide information on how to apply.

Derek Lough, president of Larne RFC, said the fund helped create an accessible environment to welcome more of the local community into the club. He encouraged other clubs to apply.

Further information is available on Sport NI's website.