Ireland’s Olympians have receieved a rapturous welcome home in Dublin today. 

Never before has Team Ireland brought home so many medals - four golds and three bronzes. 

Dressed in their green and white gear, athletes arrived at Dublin Airport to cheers and requests for autographs and high fives. 

Afterwards they were taken to O’Connell Street where an estimated 20,000 people had gathered to celebrate their achievements. 

Home sweet home 💚✨#TeamIreland | #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/68YYeSTtth

— Team Ireland (@TeamIreland) August 12, 2024

“Dublin is alive with pride this afternoon,” reporter Josh Crosbie told Lunchtime Live. 

“The tourists must think we celebrate St Patrick’s Day every Monday . 

“I’m standing outside the GPO - this is where the stage has been set up - and I’m looking down now and it’s just a sea of Irish flags. 

“There are county colours there as well, I can see some Tipperary hats, some Donegal flags, Kilkenny jerseys - people have come from near and far to welcome home Team Ireland today.” 

Team Ireland Olympic Homecoming. Photo: Leon Farrell/© RollingNews.ie

It is the first ever homecoming parade of its kind and gold medalist Daniel Wiffen said he hoped Ireland's success would lead to more people getting involved in sport. 

“It means so much, honestly,” he said. 

“I think everyone does their sport to try and inspire somebody and to hear that so many people are starting to swim… It seems like we’ve had a real big impact on the whole of Ireland.” 

Team Ireland Olympic Homecoming. Photo: Leon Farrell/© RollingNews.ie

Limerick athlete Sarah Lavin said they were all blown away by the support shown by Irish fans this year. 

“[It’s] amazing,” she said. 

“That crowd, it’s so touching - to come back to this, I can’t believe it.” 

Team Ireland Olympic Homecoming. Photo: Leon Farrell/© RollingNews.ie

Due to the homecoming parade, a series of traffic restrictions are in place outside the GPO.

O'Connell Street is closed fully until 5.30pm, when one lane will open, with the rest to follow after 10pm.

Northbound traffic is being redirected through Eden Quay and southbound traffic is being moved towards Gardiner Street.

LUAS stops on both the Red and Green lines are closed between Smithfield and the Point, and Dominick and Stephen's Green.

Finally, Dublin Bus has published a long list of route diversions on its website.

Main image: Boxer Kellie Harrington showing fans her medal on O Connell Street during the Team Ireland celebrations. Photo: Leon Farrell/© RollingNews.ie