The RDS has announced Elliott Group as the Official Sponsor of the Nations Cup of Ireland at the 2026 Gallagher Dublin Horse Show, marking a landmark partnership in the year of the 100th running of the Nations Cup for the Aga Khan Trophy, one of the most celebrated competitions in international show jumping.

The announcement comes as the RDS prepares to officially open the new Laya Arena on 5 August, the opening day of this year’s Gallagher Dublin Horse Show. Elliott Group played a central role in bringing the arena to life through the delivery of the landmark Anglesea Stand redevelopment, making its sponsorship of the Show’s flagship international competition a natural next step in its relationship with the RDS.

The partnership also carries a unique personal connection. Noel Elliott, CEO UK of Elliott Group, last competed at the Dublin Horse Show in 1986 aboard The Grey Guy. Forty years later, he will return to the RDS to compete in the Amateurs A class with Corgary Goodluck. His return coincides with Elliott Group’s sponsorship of the Nations Cup and the opening of the Laya Arena.

Darragh Elliott, CEO ROI said: “Delivering the new Laya Arena has been a landmark design and build project for Elliott Group and becoming sponsor of the Nations Cup of Ireland feels like a natural next step in our partnership with the RDS. As the competition celebrates its 100th running, we are proud to support one of the most iconic events in international show jumping.”

First contested in 1926, when the Aga Khan donated the famous trophy, the Nations Cup of Ireland has evolved into one of the most prestigious team show jumping competitions in the world and remains one of the highlights of the annual Dublin Horse Show.

Paul Kelly, Chief Executive of the RDS said: “The 100th running of the Nations Cup for the Aga Khan Trophy is a milestone moment for the Dublin Horse Show and for international equestrian sport. We are delighted to welcome Elliott Group as Official Sponsor in this historic year.”

Fiona Sheridan, Show Director, Dublin Horse Show said: “The Nations Cup is one of the defining moments of the Dublin Horse Show and one of the most prestigious competitions in world show jumping. As we prepare for its centenary running, we are delighted to partner with Elliott Group.”

Noel Elliott, CEO UK, Elliott Group said: “This year is incredibly special for Elliott Group and for me personally. The Dublin Horse Show has been part of my life since I competed here as a young rider, and returning to the RDS 40 years after my last appearance is something I am really looking forward to. Seeing the Laya Arena officially open and supporting the Nations Cup in its centenary year is a source of enormous pride.”

Follow Irish building magazine on LinkedIn for the latest news and updates.