Peter O'Mahony Embarks on Surprise New Career Following Rugby Retirement

Friday, 13 February 2026 at 20:05

byRugby Rucker

It’s been less than a year since Peter O’Mahony called time on his professional rugby career, but retirement has been anything but quiet.

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After stepping away from the game, many expected the former Ireland star to take a well-earned breather — spending time with his family, indulging his love of gardening, and perhaps travelling before deciding on his next move. That prediction wasn’t far off the mark.

But while green fingers and family time have featured, O’Mahony has also been laying the foundations for two exciting post-rugby ventures — and surprisingly, neither centres on his much-admired gardening skills.

Back in the Game: Six Nations Punditry

Rugby fans won’t have to wait long to see O’Mahony back in action — albeit off the field. He has joined Virgin Media Television’s Six Nations panel, marking his first major broadcasting role since retirement.

His punditry debut comes on Saturday, February 7, when Italy host Scotland at Rome’s iconic Stadio Olimpico. The move keeps the Cork native firmly connected to the sport that defined his career, offering viewers insight from one of Ireland’s most respected former internationals.

It’s a natural transition for a player long admired for his leadership, tactical awareness and straight-talking analysis.

Brewing Something New

Away from the studio, O’Mahony is also stepping into the drinks industry — but with a twist.

While fellow rugby circle member Joanna Cooper has made waves with her cocktail brand, and her husband Conor Murray remains a household rugby name, O’Mahony is charting his own course.

His new venture, Active Brewing, will focus entirely on alcohol-free beer.

Teasing the launch on social media at the beginning of January, he hinted at big ambitions for the brand, describing it as the start of something significant and urging followers to “get ready to level up.”

What we know so far:

The range will feature 0.0% alcohol beers
It’s being positioned as a functional, lifestyle-focused product
The official launch is set for February 2026
Branding hints at a social yet health-conscious ethos: “Be Social, Be Active.”

For an elite athlete known for discipline and peak performance, the move into alcohol-free brewing feels aligned with his values. Rather than stepping away from high standards post-retirement, O’Mahony appears to be doubling down on them.