Celtic Cup 2025/26: Fixtures Announced for Group Stage in Edinburgh

Ireland’s top Olympic Handball teams are set to compete in the Celtic Cup group stages this November, with fixtures now confirmed for the highly anticipated international tournament.

The Celtic Cup returns for the 2025/26 season with group stages taking place at Oriam Stadium in Edinburgh, Scotland on 15–16 November 2025. As one of the key fixtures in our calendar, the Celtic Cup brings together elite club teams from Ireland and Scotland for two days of fast-paced, competitive handball, with national pride on the line.

The tournament format features a round-robin group stage across men’s and women’s divisions. Top teams will progress to the Final 4 Weekend, to be hosted in Ireland in 2026, where the Celtic Cup champions will be crowned.

Representing Ireland in 2025

We’re proud to confirm the three men’s and three women’s teams that will represent Ireland in this year’s group stages:

Men’s Teams – Ireland

• Dublin City Handball (DCH)

• Dublin International

• Astra

Women’s Teams – Ireland

• Dublin City Handball (DCH)

• University College Dublin (UCD)

• Astra / Dublin International (combined team)

This year's women’s line-up reflects strong collaboration between clubs, with a combined Astra/DI squad showcasing the spirit of unity and development within our community.

Group Stage Schedule

Saturday 15th November 2025

• 10:00 – Kelvinside v Astra

• 11:30 – UDC v Edinburgh

• 13:00 – Dublin International v Tryst

• 14:30 – EK82 v DCH

• 16:00 – EK82 v Tryst

• 17:30 – Astra / DI v Tryst

Sunday 16th November 2025

• 09:00 – Tryst v DCH

• 10:30 – Astra / DI v EK82

• 12:00 – Dublin International v Kelvinside

• 13:30 – DCH v Kelvinside

• 15:00 – EK82 v Astra

• 16:30 – UDC v Tryst

A packed schedule means each match could determine which clubs qualify for the final stage. The Irish teams are set to face some of Scotland’s top talent, including Tryst, EK82, Kelvinside, UDC, and Edinburgh.

Why the Celtic Cup Matters

More than just a tournament, the Celtic Cup represents the strength of the handball community across both nations. It’s a chance to test ourselves on the international stage, celebrate the growth of the sport in Ireland, and build long-standing club rivalries in a high-stakes setting.

As hosts of the 2026 Final 4 Weekend, Ireland will be aiming to set the tone with strong performances in Edinburgh — and our teams are ready.

Let’s get behind our athletes as they represent Irish handball with pride!