Troy and predict the big baby names of '26

THE most popular baby names for 2026 are being predicted and we can expect to see some classic Irish monikers rising up the charts.

- BY CATHAL RYAN

Sporting, telly and pop stars are set to influence the names of babies across Ireland next year, according to recent research undertaken by MyNametags.

The baby boy names most likely to see a surge in 2026 include Troy.

It ranked at 655th last year in the CSO's listing, but is set to rise following Troy Parrott's five goals in the last two World Cup Qualifier games that helped secure a playoff spot for Ireland for the World Cup in 2026.

And our Irish golfing stars Rory Mcllroy and Shane Lowry - who both had a big impact in the Ryder Cup this year - will no doubt pitch up in the names list for 2026.

Rory ranked at the 68th spot in 2024 in baby names, while Shane ranked at 150th. But both names are expected to move up the chart in 2026.