Niamh Fahey announces her retirement from international football

Michael Bolton

Ireland defender Niamh Fahey has announced her international retirement after 17 years of playing with her country.

The Liverpool centre-back won 115 caps for her country, with the last of these coming in the disappointing Euro 2025 play-off defeat against Wales in December.

The Galway woman helped Ireland qualify for their first major tournament in women's football, as she started all three games in the 2023 World Cup.

In a statement, Fahey said: "After 17 years in green, from my debut to cap 115 for the Ireland Women's National Team, I have been on a journey beyond expectation and it has been a huge source of immense motivation, privilege and pride.

"A sincere thank you to all the people who have been on the journey with me and helped me in so many aspects; Friends, neighbours, teachers, coaches, colleagues, managers, team-mates, fans and many more. Your support, investment, passion and belief has pushed and inspired me in every way possible.

"To my family, who have been a core support and sounding board throughout, I would not have achieved what I have without you. I can't thank you enough for everything, especially my parents Marjorie and Richard.

"There have been countless highs and lows, but the feeling of elation and satisfaction en route to qualifying and representing our country on the world stage at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023 will live long in the memory.

"I look forward to watching and supporting the team and the future generations to come in what is only the continuation of more memorable moments at the highest level for our Women’s National Team."