'Let’s bring that cup back' to Derry says Mayor ahead of FAI Cup Final
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Grace Uí Niallais, has urged the public to play their part in Sunday’s FAI Cup Final by getting behind Mark Connolly’s side in record numbers.
Mayor Uí Niallais, her husband Aidan and children Anna Meabh, Lorcán and Faolán will join thousands of Candy Stripes supporters at the Aviva Stadium showdown with Waterford United this Sunday.
Calling on homes, businesses and schools across the City and District to fly the red and white flag, the Mayor highlighted the civic pride and unity the team's appearance in the final has brought to the city.
"There has been a great sense of anticipation and excitement in the city since the semi-final win in Galway, it is the ultimate Derry day out and an occasion for everyone to savour,” she said.
“Derry City are a club embedded in the community and the excitement and affection that the players and staff have been greeted with in their visits to local schools has demonstrated the unique relationship between the players and their supporters.
“There is a feeling that everyone is equal and that special relationship can be our superpower as we head into Sunday’s final.
“As a community we can all play our part by turning the Aviva red and white on Sunday and making sure the players are greeted by a sea of colour and a wall of noise when they walk onto that pitch.
“To the Manager Mark Connolly, Captain Michael Duffy, all the players, staff, volunteers and supporters traveling down to Dublin – I hope you make memories to last a lifetime.
“Let’s bring that cup back to the banks of the Foyle!”
Limited tickets remain for the FAI Cup Final, and people can book their seat now via Ticketmaster.
Tickets can be booked at: https://www.ticketmaster.ie/event/180064F09094D0AC?did=derry
Kick off for the 2026 Club Orange Men's FAI Cup Final Derry City FC vs. Waterford FC is this Sunday at 3pm at the Aviva Stadium, Ballsbridge Dublin.
Dedicated rail and bus services will be departing from the North West Transport Hub at 9.20am and Foyle Street Bus Station at 8am on match day.
The Journal will have a special DCFC supplement in Friday’s paper ahead of the final.