Diageo Ireland, in partnership with its cream supplier Tirlán, has today (Thursday, June 25) announced the return of the Baileys Champion Dairy Cow competition.

Celebrating the excellence of the country's Holstein Friesian dairy herds, the competition will take place at the Virginia Show on August 19, 2026.

According to Diageo, the event is a showcase of the quality behind Baileys' signature ingredient, Irish dairy cream.

Baileys cow

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon officially launched this year's competition at the Diageo Baileys site in Dublin.

He said: "The return of this annual event is a reminder of the deep-rooted tradition and pride that underpins Ireland’s dairy sector.

"Behind every outstanding entry we see is a farm family whose knowledge has been built over generations and continues to evolve through innovation and best practice.

"As we look to the future, it is that combination of heritage and forward thinking that will ensure the continued strength and resilience of our agri-food industry, both at home and on the global stage," he added.

Competition

Shane Kelly, corporate relations director, Diageo Ireland, said the competition is "one of the most tangible expressions of Baileys’ Irish credentials".

"The cream that goes into every bottle starts with exceptional breeding, careful herd management and a deep pride in craft - qualities that this competition celebrates," he said.

Carol Power, senior sales manager at Tirlán, added: "We're proud, alongside Diageo, to put the spotlight on dairy breeding excellence through this unique event and above all, the people behind it.

"The dedication of breeders and their families, many of whom have worked towards a goal of winning ‘the Baileys’ across multiple generations, is truly remarkable," she said.

Entries

Reflecting Baileys’ all-island supply footprint, entry to the Diageo Baileys Cow is open to members of both the Irish Holstein Friesian Association and Holstein NI.

The closing date for entries is August 12, 2026.

The competition’s top prize, Diageo Baileys Champion, comes with a cash reward of €3,000 and the Virginia Milk Products Cup.

The breeders of Reserve Champion and Honourable Mention will receive €1,500 and €800 respectively.

Additionally, the event will feature numerous other category prizes, including Junior Cows in their second lactation, with a total prize fund of €1,550.

The popular Best-Heifer-in-Milk category will also offer €1,550, with €750 awarded to the first-place winner.