BOYLE Sports will be the title sponsor for the unique, televised pre-season friendly match between Manchester United and Leeds United at Croke Park in Dublin. 

The match between two of English football’s bitter rivals will be televised on ITV in the UK and on Premier Sports in Ireland. 

It marks the first football fixture held at Croke Park since the first leg of Ireland’s World Cup playoff tie against France in 2009 – one which remains one of the most infamous in Irish football history following the goings on in the second leg at the Stade de France which saw Thierry Henry’s infamous handball assist.

A sell-out Man Utd vs Leeds fixture

Despite being a pre-season friendly, the game was always likely to attract a high audience given the large number of Man Utd and Leeds fans across Ireland and it is now sold out. It being on free-to-air television will also surely boost visibility for BOYLE Sports.

Man Utd vs Leeds will be named the BOYLE Sports Cup 2026 which, while unordinary, is not unique to the Irish operator. From 2015-2024, West Ham United hosted the Betway Cup while principal sponsors of the then-Premier League outfit. 

BOYLE Sports branding will feature across official match assets, in-stadium branding and broadcast, and the business said it will be delivering various fan activations around the match. 

It follows the company becoming Leeds’ UK and Ireland betting partner in a multi-year deal. 

The firm’s branding is also set to be displayed around Elland Road for the upcoming Premier League season, which will include LED advertising on matchdays.

Liam McKee, Head of Sponsorship at BOYLE Sports, said: “As official betting partner of Leeds United, we’re delighted to be title sponsor of the BOYLE Sports Cup 2026, for what promises to be a brilliant occasion.

“This is exactly the kind of moment we want BOYLE Sports to be part of. Two big clubs, passionate supporters and a matchday experience that brings real energy to fans. 

“Croke Park is an iconic venue, and we’re looking forward to playing our part in making the Manchester United v Leeds United, BOYLE Sports Cup 2026, a memorable fixture for supporters in Ireland and beyond.”