Donegal Faces Down in 2026 Ulster Championship Opener

URGENT UPDATE: The draw for the 2026 Ulster Senior Football Championship has just concluded, revealing that Donegal will take on Down at home in the quarter-finals. This pivotal match is set to ignite the championship as Donegal aims for an unprecedented third consecutive Ulster title.

This announcement, made at Croke Park this evening, has electrified fans across the region. Jim McGuinness, Donegal’s head coach, is determined to lead his team to a historic victory, something no Donegal squad has ever achieved.

In a dramatic preliminary round, Tyrone will clash with Armagh, with the winner facing Declan Bonner’s Fermanagh in the quarter-finals. The other quarter-finals feature Derry against Antrim at Celtic Park and Monaghan hosting Cavan.

The stakes are high: the victor of the Donegal versus Down showdown will advance to the semi-finals, pitting them against the winner from the Tyrone/Armagh/Fermanagh bracket. Fans are buzzing with anticipation as the championship approaches.

This year’s championship promises intense competition and thrilling matchups, making it a must-watch for all football enthusiasts. The excitement is palpable, and supporters are already marking their calendars for this significant clash.

As the tournament progresses, attention will focus on how Donegal navigates this challenging path. Will they secure their place in Ulster history? Stay tuned for further updates as we approach the kickoff of the 2026 Ulster Senior Football Championship.