21-07-2025
'Stuff of dreams' as Tipp squad greeted by 45,000 fans in Thurles
Excitement was at fever pitch in Co Tipperary for the homecoming of the newly-crowned All-Ireland hurling champions.
Following yesterday's emphatic win over Cork, the players and management brought the Liam MacCarthy Cup back to the Premier Country for the first time since 2019.
Around 45,000 people gathered in Semple Stadium in Thurles to greet them.
Tipperary manager Liam Cahill said there were "incredible scenes".
"It's absolutely incredible, the 45,000 plus people here. "It's the stuff of dreams really.
"I'm delighted the Liam MacCarthy is back here in Tipperary.
Mr Cahill also paid tribute to the Dillon Quirke, the player who died three years ago.
"It's so fitting, in his memory, to bring Liam MacCarthy out into Semple Stadium and he's always with us on our shoulders everywhere we go."
Tipp fans celebrate All-Ireland win
Tipperary player Michael Breen said that despite being a part of previous victories in 2016 and 2019, this win was unique.
"This trumps all of that because it's just the story of the last 12 months, and also the 70 minutes, and how it went yesterday.
"It's just so special ... this is unbelievable ... this is something we will remember for the rest of our lives."
Before heading on stage to greet fans, player Andrew Ormond said the homecoming was an important moment for players and supporters alike.
"We're so excited to get out there now and see our fans that have travelled to see us since the first day out this year in the league and throughout the championships," he said .
"A big part of this is for us, but a massive part of this is for them as well."
Teammate Jake Morris echoed the players' sentiments of gratitude for their supporters.
"It's brilliant ... the Tipp fans have been so good to us all year, and we knew that they'd come again tonight to celebrate with us, and really grateful to have them on side with us."
The celebrations got under way at around 4.30pm in Semple Stadium, where a large crowd attended the event.
Festivities featured homegrown entertainment from Seskin Lane, Callini Lua, Acquiesce, and The 2 Johnnies.
It was a different story in Cork this evening where there was no homecoming event after the hurlers returned by train to Kent Station.
to claim a 29th All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship win.
