Cork’s iconic GAA stadium, Páirc Uí Chaoimh, is to be renamed SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh as part of a new 10-year partnership with Ireland’s leading supermarket retailer, SuperValu.
There was significant controversy and difficulty surrounding the renaming of Páirc Uí Chaoimh to SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh. The initial proposal faced strong criticism for potentially dropping the name Uí Chaoimh, which led to a backlash from the public, GAA fans, politicians, and the Ó Chaoimh family.
The stadium is named after Pádraig Ó Caoimh, a former GAA Director General and a significant figure in both the GAA’s history and the Irish War of Independence. The family expressed that they were not informed about the proposal, which was part of a €1m sponsorship deal with SuperValu.
This led to a compromise where the new name would include both the SuperValu brand and retain the Uí Chaoimh name, reflecting a sensitivity to the stadium’s historical significance and the contributions of Pádraig Ó Caoimh to the GAA and Irish society.
Cork GAA and SuperValu reached a 10-year sponsorship agreement, after which the name was adjusted to SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, a decision expected to be ratified by club delegates at a special Cork county board meeting.
This compromise aimed to address the concerns raised by the initial naming proposal, showing a commitment to maintaining the stadium’s heritage while also embracing new commercial partnerships.
