Ireland’s Futsal Team Headed to Italy for SUDS European Championships

Ireland’s National Futsal team for players with Down Syndrome is heading to Italy! They’ll be competing in the SUDS European Championships from June 15th to 21st, 2025, in Ferrara. This big event is being organised by the Italian Paralympic Sport Federation.

Since 2023, Down Syndrome Ireland and the Football Association of Ireland’s (FAI) Football for All program have been working together, and it’s been a huge success! Our Futsal team has already shown amazing skills in international games against strong teams like Italy, Portugal, Türkiye, and the USA.

11 players have been chosen for the Ireland National Futsal squad to travel to Italy, representing 6 different branches of Down Syndrome Ireland.

After the final try-outs, Cork player Cian Kelleher said, “Futsal is fun. I can’t wait to go to Italy and play for Ireland!”

Cian’s mum, Máire, added, “What a wonderful opportunity it is for these players to wear their Ireland jerseys. They have worked hard to reach this point. They have demonstrated much skill, determination and a great sense of camaraderie.”

We’re wishing the team the best of luck!