Donegal Set for McKenna Cup Matches Against Derry and Fermanagh

The Dr McKenna Cup is set to return in early January 2026, with Donegal drawn to face Derry and Fermanagh in Section C. The tournament marks a significant event in the Gaelic football calendar, particularly after its absence in 2025 due to a condensed inter-county season.

The fixture schedule is still pending confirmation from Ulster GAA, but it has been indicated that Donegal will have one home game and one away game. The initial match is scheduled for Sunday, January 4, 2026.

Competition Structure and Other Teams

In addition to Donegal’s matches, Tyrone has been placed in Section A alongside Armagh and Down, while Section B consists of Antrim, Cavan, and Monaghan. The winners of each section, along with the best runner-up, will advance to the semi-finals, heightening the stakes for all teams involved.

While the McKenna Cup has traditionally served as a pre-season competition, its cancellation last year was part of a broader adjustment within the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) framework. This year, teams are expected to approach the tournament with renewed enthusiasm as they gear up for the upcoming provincial draws, set to occur on Thursday evening.

The anticipation surrounding the tournament is palpable, particularly for fans eager to see how Donegal will perform against their rivals. The matches promise to deliver a thrilling start to the 2026 Gaelic football season.