More than 200 people took to the streets of Dublin for a charity run organised by the Belfast hip-hop group Kneecap, with the event receiving a surprise show of support from the Irish President herself.
Run for Gaza Draws Crowd and Presidential Support
The 10-kilometre (6.2-mile) fundraiser was held on Wednesday 17 December 2025 and aimed to generate funds for the Gaza Food and Play project. This initiative provides emergency food, water, and crucial psychosocial support for children in the embattled region.
Led by Kneecap's Moglai Bap, whose real name is Naoise Ó Cairealláin, the runners set off through the city. Many participants carried Palestinian flags, wore Bohemians FC jerseys, and chanted "Free Palestine" throughout the route.
Presidential Encounter in Phoenix Park
As the group passed the presidential residence, Áras an Uachtaráin in Phoenix Park, they were met with encouragement from President Catherine Connolly. The runners paused near a gap in the hedge bordering the grounds to cheer and clap.
President Connolly, alongside her husband Brian McEnery, offered words of support. Addressing Ó Cairealláin in Irish, she urged him to "keep going." Runners stopped briefly to take selfies across the boundary, with onlookers shouting phrases like "good on you" and "fair play."
High-Profile Participation and Band's Controversial Stance
The event also saw the participation of prominent climate activist Greta Thunberg, who joined the pack of runners. The charity run coincided with Kneecap's preparations for the second night of their sold-out two-night stint at Dublin's 3Arena.
Kneecap is no stranger to controversy, known for its provocative lyrics and outspoken political views. The group's explicit style and vocal support for the Palestinian cause have polarised audiences, drawing praise from supporters for their defiance and criticism from others for allegedly courting controversy.
This political stance has previously led to legal clashes. Last year, the band won a discrimination case against the UK government after then-Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch attempted to block them from receiving a £14,250 funding award.
