Ian Maguire appointed captain of Cork senior footballers

St Finbarr’s star Ian Maguire has been appointed captain of the Cork senior football team for the upcoming season taking the reins from Castlehaven’s Brian Hurley.

The midfielder previously held the role from 2018 to 2021. 

He made his first championship appearance with the Cork senior footballers in a Round 4 qualifier match against Sligo in the All-Ireland series in 2014.

Maguire has been part and parcel of John Cleary's side in recent years, forming a formidable partnership with Colm O’Callaghan in the middle of the field.

The 31-year-old is coming into 2026 in great form after helping St Finbarr’s win the McCarthy Insurance Group Premier SFC title in the last campaign.

Cork GAA announced the news on Thursday night in a short statement on social media.

“Cork GAA is pleased to confirm that Ian Maguire of St Finbarr's has been appointed as captain of the Cork senior football team for the new season. We wish Ian and the Cork team and management every success in the year ahead.” 

The Rebels open their Allianz Division 2 Football League campaign on Sunday, January 25 against Cavan at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

Before that, Cork face Limerick on Sunday in the McGrath Cup at Páirc Uí Rinn with throw-in at 2pm.

After beating Tipperary last Tuesday night in Cappawhite, another victory would send the Leesiders into the final of the pre-season competition, more than likely against Kerry.

The McGrath Cup decider is down for Saturday week.