Rose of Tralee 2026: Westmeath contender who shared alopecia condition called the winner

Westmeath Rose Caoilfhinn Ní Choiligh was crowned the 2026 Rose of Tralee on Tuesday night at the conclusion of this year’s festival in Co Kerry. The Westmeath Rose shared her alopecia journey on Monday night’s show, demonstrating a selection of wigs before removing the wig she was wearing to reveal her hair loss. Ní Choiligh has been wearing wigs for eight years after losing her hair at age 15. She expressed gratitude for the support of the festival organizers, saying, ‘I’m speechless. I don’t think this is even real. I honestly would not have been able to do any of this without any of these girls.’ She inherited the title from last year’s winner, Laois woman Katelyn Cummins, who advised her to embrace every moment and stay true to herself. Ní Choiligh also discussed her decision not to wear fake tan, aligning with her embrace of her hair loss and pale skin. She is studying wig making and runs a support group, The Hair Loss Haven, offering events and meet-ups for those affected by hair loss. Previously, she worked on youth initiatives with Comhairle Na nÓg and the Irish Second-Level Students’ Union. The competition was judged by RTÉ broadcaster Nuala Carey, fashion designer Don O’Neill, Aisling Murphy of sponsor Murphy Homes, and 1974 Rose of Tralee Maggie Flaherty. The two-night TV extravaganza featured performances by Frank and Walters on night one and Riverdance on night two, followed by interviews with the 32 Roses and a talent show. The winner receives a prize fund including a new car for 12 months, free hotel stays, hair treatments in Tralee, and a €25,000 travel bursary, with the latter used to represent the festival.