After months of speculation, it has been officially confirmed that Ireland will host an NFL game for the first time, with Croke Park in Dublin set to welcome the Pittsburgh Steelers next autumn.
The historic event marks a major milestone for American football in Ireland, though several key details—including the exact date, the Steelers’ opponent, and ticket prices—have yet to be finalized.
Major Economic Boost Expected
While fans eagerly await further details, what is certain is the significant financial impact the game is expected to bring. The Irish government has committed nearly €10 million in state funding, with projections estimating that around 30,000 international visitors will travel to Dublin for the event.
The economic benefit is expected to be substantial, with estimates suggesting the game could be worth up to €250 million to the Irish economy. The NFL itself is projected to spend between €14 million and €18 million on staging the event, while increased tourism spending on accommodation, hospitality, and transport will generate significant tax returns for the state.
Ireland has a strong history of hosting high-profile American football games at the college level, including the annual Aer Lingus College Football Classic. A report by Grant Thornton estimated that last year’s game between Notre Dame and Navy at the Aviva Stadium brought in €180 million. However, experts believe the arrival of the NFL will easily surpass that figure.
‘Biggest International Event Ireland Has Ever Staged’
Rob Hartnett, Chief Executive of Sport for Business, believes the game could be the largest sporting event ever held in Ireland.
“The 2023 college football game at the Aviva had an economic impact of €180 million, and that was with a capacity of 48,000,” he explained. “Croke Park holds over 82,000, and there will be massive interest in an NFL game here. The level of spend from visitors flying in from the U.S. and beyond will be huge.”
Hartnett predicts an overall economic benefit of well over €250 million.
What Will It Cost Fans?
For those hoping to attend, ticket prices have yet to be announced, but comparisons can be drawn with similar NFL games in London. Last year, tickets for the league’s UK fixtures ranged from £68 to £195 (€81–€234). However, as this is Ireland’s first-ever NFL game, and with the strong Irish-American connection, prices could be significantly higher.
Accommodation prices in Dublin, already known for being expensive, are expected to rise further as demand skyrockets. With a chronic shortage of hotel rooms in the city, visitors could face costs running into the high hundreds of euros per night.
Beyond tickets and lodging, fans will also need to factor in costs for food, drinks, transport, and merchandise, making it a pricey—but historic—experience.
Despite the potential expenses, Ireland’s debut as an NFL host is set to deliver unparalleled excitement for sports fans while providing a major financial boost to the country.
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