Tour de Munster gets underway this week in Cork

The Tour de Munster 2026 gets underway on Thursday, August 6, in Cork, with cyclists raising vital funds for the Munster branches of  Down Syndrome Ireland. 

The four-day event will see more than 100 cyclists travel through all six counties of Munster. Led by Irish cycling legend Seán Kelly, participants will help to support the essential services provided by Down Syndrome Ireland for children, adults and families across the province.

Since its inception in 2001, Tour de Munster has raised more than €5.5m for its charitable beneficiaries, with Down Syndrome Ireland serving as the event’s primary beneficiary since 2010.

The funds raised support essential services including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, employment programmes and practical supports that help children and adults with Down syndrome lead more independent lives.

The 2026 tour will depart from Cork city on Thursday morning, setting off from outside the English Market on Grand Parade, before travelling through Waterford, Tipperary, Limerick, Clare and Kerry.

The event will return to Cork on Sunday, August 9, when as has become tradition, cyclists will finish the tour by taking on the challenging climb of St Patrick’s Hill, where supporters are encouraged to gather and cheer participants across the finish line.

Founder and organiser of Tour de Munster, Paul Sheridan, said all involved are eagerly looking forward to this year’s edition of the event.

“We hope people across Munster will come out to support the tour over the four days, whether that’s cheering the cyclists along the route or making a donation.

“That support makes all the difference and helps us continue raising vital funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland.”

Tara Casserly, chairperson of Down Syndrome Ireland, Cork Branch added: “Every kilometre cycled and every euro raised helps us continue providing essential services, including speech and language therapy, that enable children and adults with Down syndrome to thrive.”