The RDS has announced Elliott Group as the Official Sponsor of the Nations Cup of Ireland at the 2026 Gallagher Dublin Horse Show, marking a landmark partnership in the year of the 100th running of the Nations Cup for the Aga Khan Trophy, one of the most celebrated competitions in international show jumping.
The announcement comes as the RDS prepares to officially open the new Laya Arena on 5 August, the opening day of this year’s Gallagher Dublin Horse Show. Elliott Group played a central role in bringing the arena to life through the delivery of the landmark Anglesea Stand redevelopment, making its sponsorship of the Show’s flagship international competition a natural next step in its relationship with the RDS.
The partnership also carries a unique personal connection. Noel Elliott, CEO UK of Elliott Group, last competed at the Gallagher Dublin Horse Show in 1986 aboard The Grey Guy. Forty years later, he will return to the RDS to compete in the Amateurs AA class with Corgary Goodluck.
First contested in 1926, when the Aga Khan donated the famous trophy, the Nations Cup of Ireland has evolved into one of the most prestigious team show jumping competitions in the world and remains one of the highlights of the annual Gallagher Dublin Horse Show.
Paul Kelly, Chief Executive of the RDS said: “The 100th running of the Nations Cup for the Aga Khan Trophy is a landmark moment for the Gallagher Dublin Horse Show and we are delighted to welcome Elliott Group as Official Sponsor. Having led a world-class team in delivering the new Laya Arena, Elliott Group is a fitting partner for one of the world’s great team competitions as we celebrate this historic milestone.”
Noel Elliott, CEO UK, Elliott Group said: “This year is incredibly special for Elliott Group and for me personally. The Gallagher Dublin Horse Show has been part of my life since I competed here as a young rider, and returning to the RDS 40 years after my last appearance is something I am really looking forward to. Seeing the Laya Arena officially open and supporting the Nations Cup in its centenary year is a source of enormous pride.”
Fiona Sheridan, Show Director, Gallagher Dublin Horse Show said:
“This year’s Gallagher Dublin Horse Show will be bigger and better than ever as we celebrate the 100th running of the Nations Cup for the Aga Khan Trophy and officially open the new Laya Arena. We look forward to welcoming top riders, horses and teams from around the world to Dublin for what promises to be a truly memorable week and are delighted to have Elliott Group on board as sponsor of such a special occasion.”Darragh Elliott, CEO ROI, Elliott Group said:
“Having helped bring the new Laya Arena to life, becoming sponsor of the Nations Cup of Ireland feels like a natural next step in our partnership with the RDS. As the competition celebrates its 100th running, we are proud to support one of the most iconic events in international show jumping.”
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