JP McManus declares Limerick hurlers, “world champions”

It was an emotional day for all involved yesterday as Limerick collected an eighth All-Ireland title after a 45 year wait.

In a blaze of emotion, JP McManus hailed Limerick as "champions of the world". The legendary horse owner made the claim to local paper The Limerick Leader today following yesterday's narrow victory over Galway. The businessman has been sponsoring Limerick GAA under the banner of Sporting Limerick since 2004, and yesterday got the witness them lift an All-Ireland title at long last. McManus paid a visit to the Limerick dressing room after the game yesterday to basked in the glory alongside them, he was treated to a rousing reception by his fellow county men. They even sang a song dedicated to him, which shows that his work has not gone unnoticed within the county. https://twitter.com/JeromeSport/status/1031448994105446400

Speaking to Jerome O'Connell, he said, "When they win the NFL in America they call themselves world champions, so in hurling now Limerick are the world champions."

The one narrative coming from Limerick's victory is that this success is the result of years of work that has went on within their Academy structure, which brings hurlers right through from grassroots level. The party has well and truly begun, and doesn't look set to end for another few days yet.