Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 May 2026
583. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Ireland's strategy around attracting major international sporting events and developing the necessary infrastructure; and if consideration could be given in the long-term future to hosting or co-hosting a Summer Olympic Games. [37824/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government continues to support the hosting of major sports events in Ireland and to explore further hosting opportunities. This was evidenced most recently by the Government’s successful delivery of the first-ever National Football League (NFL) regular season game at Croke Park in September last year which delivered a major economic boost to the country.
Upcoming major international sports events in Ireland include the Ryder Cup in 2027 in Adare and the co-hosting of the UEFA EURO 2028 football championship with the UK. The EURO 2028 event will see seven matches taking place in Dublin including a quarter-final.
In relation to the strategy to attract these events, a government policy and strategy framework for the hosting of Major International Sports Events was published in 2024. In implementing this policy framework, my Department works closely with a range of partners including National Governing Bodies, local authorities and other state agencies in evaluating and delivering the events.
Before my Department and Government commits public monies to supporting the hosting of a major sports event in Ireland, a significant range of factors needs to be taken into account. These factors include the projected cost to the State, the expected economic benefits accruing to the State, and the proposed event’s capacity to contribute to wider policy objectives, such as increasing physical activity and participation in sport.
In relation to the hosting or co-hosting of a summer Olympic Games as suggested by the Deputy, no proposal is under consideration in that regard and any proposal would need to address the significant level of additional infrastructure required to deliver an event of such scale. More generally though, my Department remains open to engagement on all future major international sports events consistent with the Framework, and I am committed to ensuring that Ireland continues to strengthen its reputation as a competitive and attractive destination for hosting major events.
