Brian Tracey, Paul Doyle, Fiachra Fitzpatrick, James Doyle and Martin Kavanagh are recognised after Carlow’s run to the final, with Laois claiming seven places on the selection.
Carlow and Laois finished at the top of the round-robin standings before meeting in an entertaining final at Croke Park. While Carlow were unable to claim the trophy, the individual recognition highlights the quality within the squad.
Tracey earned his place between the posts after a strong season, while Doyle and Fitzpatrick were recognised for their work in defence. James Doyle and Martin Kavanagh complete Carlow’s representation, having impressed with their scoring throughout the competition.
Laois dominate the team with seven selections after securing redemption following defeats in the 2024 and 2025 finals. Their representatives include full-backs Ian Shanahan and Pádraig Delaney, half-back Fiachra Culliton-Fennell, captain David Dooley in midfield, forwards Stephen Maher and Aaron Dunphy, and full-forward Cillian Dunne.
Dunne was particularly influential in the final, scoring 1-6 from play as Laois claimed the title.
Down have two representatives, with Caolán Taggart selected at centre-back and Dónal Hughes in midfield, while Antrim’s Ryan McCambridge completes the side.
The team was selected by a panel of Gaelic games correspondents, with nominations provided by GPA players’ representatives.
The award winners will be honoured at a special banquet at Croke Park on Friday evening, alongside the Champion 15 winners and the Tailteann Cup Football Team of the Year. The overall hurlers and footballers of the year will also be announced at the event.
2026 Joe McDonagh Cup Team of the Year
- Brian Tracey — Carlow
- Ian Shanahan — Laois
- Pádraig Delaney — Laois
- Paul Doyle — Carlow
- Fiachra Culliton-Fennell — Laois
- Caolán Taggart — Down
- Fiachra Fitzpatrick — Carlow
- David Dooley — Laois
- Dónal Hughes — Down
- Ryan McCambridge — Antrim
- Stephen Maher — Laois
- Aaron Dunphy — Laois
- James Doyle — Carlow
- Cillian Dunne — Laois
- Martin Kavanagh — Carlow
