Wexford man elected as new GAA President

Wexford native Derek Kent has been elected as the 42nd President of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), in a historic vote at the 2026 GAA Annual Congress held at Croke Park on 27 February 2026…

Kent, a member of Taghmon-Camross GAA in Co. Wexford, secured a commanding victory in the election, receiving 169 out of 277 delegate votes — comfortably surpassing the quota required on the first count and outpacing fellow candidates Ger Ryan of Tipperary and John Murphy of Sligo.

Kent’s election marks a proud moment for Wexford GAA. The Taghmon-Camross clubman will officially take up the presidency at next year’s Congress in February 2027, succeeding outgoing president Jarlath Burns.

A lifelong GAA volunteer and administrator, Kent’s rise through the ranks of Gaelic games administration reflects decades of dedication to the sport.

He served as Chairperson of Wexford GAA from 2017 to 2020 and most recently completed a three-year term as Chairman of Leinster GAA. He has also held leadership roles on national committees, including the Central Competitions Control Committee and the Infrastructure, Health & Safety Committee, giving him extensive experience in governance and organisational development within the association.

In his acceptance remarks to Congress delegates, Kent paid tribute to his fellow candidates and emphasised his commitment to the core values of the GAA, promising to “always do the right thing for the GAA.” His presidency is widely expected to focus on strengthening club structures, supporting volunteerism, and navigating key strategic issues facing the organisation in the years ahead.

One challenge facing the organisation will be integration with the Camogie Association and the Ladies Gaelic Football Association, placing all under the one umbrella association.

This election is a significant milestone for Wexford sport, with Kent’s leadership role shining a spotlight on the county’s contribution to Gaelic games at the highest level.