The All-Ireland series throws up a mouth-watering opening round clash as Kerry host Donegal in a repeat of last year's Croke Park final. The Kingdom ran out comprehensive 1-26 to 0-19 winners in the 2025 decider, though Donegal gained revenge with an emphatic 3-20 to 2-10 victory in this year's Division One final. As Munster finalists, Kerry retain home advantage, while Donegal must start their campaign on the road after suffering a surprise Ulster quarter-final defeat to Down.

Armagh, who hammered Down by 28 points to reach the Ulster final, will host provincial rivals Derry in another heavyweight opening-round tie. Monaghan, who face Armagh in the provincial final after a superb comeback win over Derry, will host Mayo. Meanwhile, Tyrone travel to Connacht finalists Roscommon in what promises to be a tricky assignment for the Ulster side.

Dublin will host Louth in a repeat of the Dubs' Leinster semi-final victory, while Westmeath - who meet Dublin in the provincial decider - welcome Cavan. Munster finalists Cork entertain Meath, and Kildare travel west to face Connacht finalists Galway in the remaining first-round ties.