Corrigan Park has been confirmed as the venue for the Ulster Senior Football Championship quarter-final clash between Antrim and Armagh on 12 April, following a decision by the Ulster CCC on Monday night.
The reversal by the governing body comes after a strong campaign by Antrim’s players and management, who had threatened to boycott the match if they were denied home advantage.
The stadium’s capacity is set at 4,000, and there will be no increase for the fixture. As a result, many Armagh season-ticket holders—of which there are approximately 3,500—may be unable to attend the game.
The decision follows extensive discussions between the Ulster Council and Antrim GAA in recent weeks. Antrim submitted a revised proposal addressing health and safety concerns, ultimately persuading the Ulster CCC to change their initial ruling, which had designated Newry as the match venue.
Despite securing home advantage, Antrim faces a tough challenge against the reigning All-Ireland champions. The Saffrons were recently relegated to Division 4 of the Allianz League, making this a classic David vs. Goliath encounter.
The Corrigan Park controversy has also reignited debate over Casement Park, which has remained closed since 2013. Many believe that had the Belfast stadium been redeveloped, this dispute could have been avoided. Furthermore, the delays in its reconstruction continue to raise concerns about Northern Ireland’s ability to host matches for Euro 2028.
Ulster GAA confirmed their decision in a statement, highlighting that assurances from Antrim GAA since their last meeting on 6 March allowed them to reconsider the venue change.
“Corrigan Park has a certified capacity of 4,000 people. As ticket demand is expected to exceed availability, there will be no ticket concessions for this fixture.
“The early throw-in time (12.30pm) will allow Armagh supporters the opportunity to attend the Lidl Ladies NFL Division One final between Armagh and Kerry in Croke Park later that day,” the statement read. Ulster GAA also used the announcement to reiterate their call for progress on the redevelopment of Casement Park.
“Ulster CCC further reiterated their desire for work to commence at Casement Park as soon as possible.”
Antrim GAA expressed satisfaction with the decision, emphasizing that Corrigan Park was always the appropriate venue for the game.
“Antrim GAA welcomes confirmation that the opening fixture of the Ulster Senior Football Championship versus Armagh will take place at Corrigan Park. This aligns with our consistent view that Corrigan Park is the appropriate venue for the fixture.
“We would like to thank Ulster GAA for their extensive engagement on this matter, and we are pleased the correct decision has been made. We now look forward to welcoming Antrim and Armagh Gaels to what will be a fantastic occasion at Corrigan Park.”
In addition to the venue confirmation, the Ulster CCC also ruled that the Ulster Ladies Football final between Armagh and Donegal, scheduled for 18 May, will serve as a curtain-raiser to the men’s final, should both counties reach the decider.
