Dublin City Council has staged a special civic welcome for Shamrock Rovers captain and Cabo Verde World Cup hero Pico Lopes at Lourdes Celtic FC in Crumlin, where his football journey began. The event marked his standout achievements, including helping Cabo Verde reach the last 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while saluting the vital role played by Lourdes Celtic FC and the local community in his development.

Lord Mayor of Dublin, Daryl Barron, said: "Today Dublin is welcoming home one of its own. Pico Lopes has gone from playing football at Lourdes Celtic to leading Shamrock Rovers and representing Cabo Verde at the highest level of the game. His achievements have made his community proud and show young people across Dublin what is possible when talent is matched with hard work and ambition. Dublin City Council is honoured to celebrate his success and the grassroots club where it all began."

Held at Eamonn Ceannt Park, the homecoming gathered local residents, young players, club representatives, elected members and invited guests to honour a player whose journey from Dublin's grassroots to the global stage underscores the opportunities sport can create and the enduring influence of community football. The family-friendly programme featured football skills workshops, penalty shoot-out contests, dribbling races, freestyle performances, music and entertainment throughout the afternoon. A large LED screen showed highlights from Pico's career and World Cup campaign, while children and families enjoyed football-themed activities, giveaways and photo opportunities.

A spokesperson for Lourdes Celtic FC said: "Today is a very proud day for Lourdes Celtic FC. Welcoming Pico back to the club where his football journey began is a special moment for our players, coaches, volunteers and supporters. His achievements with Shamrock Rovers and Cabo Verde are an inspiration to young people throughout our community and a reminder of the important role grassroots clubs play in helping young players develop their talent and achieve their dreams. We are delighted to celebrate his success and to welcome him home."

Pico Lopes said: "I want to thank the Lord Mayor and Dublin City Council for hosting this event at Lourdes Celtic today and to say a very special thank you to everyone who turned up and made it such a great occasion for my family and for myself. Lourdes Celtic are at the very heart of the community here in Crumlin and it was such a pleasure to meet so many old friends from my time with the club and to make so many new friends as well, as we celebrated the incredible World Cup journey with Cape Verde. I wish all involved with Lourdes Celtic the very best for the future, this club will always be close to my heart and I thank them again for today."

The reception highlighted the importance of community sport and the positive impact of local clubs in creating pathways for young people to participate, progress and reach their potential. Dublin City Council recognised Pico Lopes' achievements while also paying tribute to Lourdes Celtic FC's pivotal role in shaping one of Dublin's outstanding sporting ambassadors.