Quick Read
- A fence section collapsed at UPMC Nowlan Park, Kilkenny, on February 7, 2026.
- The incident occurred during celebrations after the Leinster senior schools hurling final.
- Several supporters sustained injuries, with some requiring hospital treatment.
- Kilkenny GAA confirmed the collapse, stating three supporters needed medical attention.
- The incident has been noted, and relevant parties have been informed for review.
KILKENNY (Azat TV) – A section of pitchside fencing at UPMC Nowlan Park in Kilkenny collapsed on Saturday, February 7, 2026, during post-match celebrations of the Leinster senior schools hurling final, resulting in injuries to several supporters. The incident, which occurred as fans and players converged, has prompted an official response from Kilkenny GAA and highlighted ongoing concerns regarding spectator safety at sporting venues.
The collapse happened shortly after St Kieran’s boys secondary school secured the Leinster senior schools hurling title against Kilkenny CBS. As celebratory scenes unfolded, with players approaching supporters in Ardán de Grás, a surge from the crowd reportedly pushed against the fence, causing it to give way. Social media footage captured the moments leading up to the collapse, showing players jumping towards the fence as a large group of supporters moved forward.
Spectator Injuries and Emergency Response at Nowlan Park
Following the incident, a number of hurling supporters required immediate medical attention, with some transported to St Luke’s General Hospital for further treatment. Reports indicated that some individuals sustained leg injuries. Stewards, An Garda Síochána, and even team players quickly rushed to assist those who were caught in the collapse, demonstrating a rapid on-site response.
Kilkenny GAA released a statement confirming the incident. The organization stated that a section of the pitchside fencing gave way during post-match celebrations, leading to several supporters falling. “Three supporters required medical attention, and a response plan was put in place by the County Board Medical Team to treat the individuals,” the statement read, adding that “The safety and wellbeing of all those in attendance is taken seriously. The incident has been noted and the appropriate parties have been informed.” The county board refrained from further comment out of respect for those involved, emphasizing the seriousness with which they are addressing the situation.
Ongoing Safety Reviews for GAA Venues
This recent fence collapse at UPMC Nowlan Park underscores the critical importance of robust safety protocols and infrastructure at sporting venues, particularly during high-emotion events like championship finals. The incident, now under review by Kilkenny GAA, follows a pattern of heightened scrutiny over crowd management and facility integrity at major sporting gatherings. The organization’s commitment to informing “appropriate parties” suggests a formal process to investigate the precise cause of the collapse and implement measures to prevent recurrence.
The necessity for comprehensive safety assessments at GAA grounds, especially in areas prone to crowd surges during celebrations, remains paramount. A thorough review of the structural integrity of spectator barriers and crowd control strategies is essential to safeguard attendees and ensure that such incidents do not mar the spirit of competition and victory.