Arthur Cox LLP has announced a new three-year sponsorship agreement with the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, reinforcing its commitment to supporting international initiatives that connect Ireland with global audiences.
The series has become a flagship event on Ireland’s sporting calendar, bringing top-tier US college football to Dublin while showcasing the country as a destination for sport, tourism and business. The 2026 edition will take place at the Aviva Stadium on 29 August, featuring TCU Horned Frogs against the North Carolina Tar Heels in the only NCAA Division I game to be played in Ireland this year.
Looking further ahead, organisers have confirmed that the Pittsburgh Panthers will face the Wisconsin Badgers in the 2027 edition, continuing the event’s pipeline of high-profile matchups.
The Aer Lingus College Football Classic has delivered substantial economic and cultural benefits since its inception. The last four games have generated an estimated €514 million for the Irish economy, while attracting television audiences of more than 18 million viewers in the United States. Beyond the on-field action, the series plays a key role in strengthening business, cultural and political ties between Ireland and the US.
Commenting on the partnership, Geoff Moore, Managing Partner at Arthur Cox said the event “combines sport, culture and global connectivity,” adding that the sponsorship reflects the firm’s international outlook and its focus on creating meaningful engagement opportunities for clients and the wider community.
Eve Mulconry, a partner at the firm, highlighted the broader significance of the series, noting that it serves as “a focal point for Irish-US business, cultural and community engagement” while offering a platform to connect with international audiences.
Co-founder of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, Padraic O’Kane welcomed the agreement, pointing to the alignment between Arthur Cox’s international connections and the event’s “Much More Than A Game” initiative, which underpins a wider programme of business and cultural activity around the fixture.
Brendan Meehan, Commercial Director for the event added that support from partners such as Arthur Cox is central to the continued growth of the series, helping to deliver a world-class event with lasting impact for Ireland.
The partnership forms part of Arthur Cox’s broader strategy to support initiatives that enhance Ireland’s reputation as a global hub for business, culture and international collaboration.
If you would like to be part of the Sport for Business community and see your organisation in our content, on our stages, and in the conversation happening every day around the commercial world of Irish Sport, email us today and let’s see what is possible.
Image Credit: Aer Lingus College Football Classic and Maxwell Photography
ABOUT SPORT FOR BUSINESS
Sport for Business is Ireland’s leading platform focused on the commercial, strategic and societal impact of sport. It connects decision-makers across governing bodies, clubs, brands, agencies and public institutions through high-quality content, events and insight. Sport for Business explores how sport drives economic value, participation, inclusion and national identity, and how your story can be part of ours.
Through analysis, storytelling and convening the sector, it helps leaders understand trends, share best practice and make better-informed decisions. Its work positions sport not just as entertainment, but as a vital contributor to Ireland’s social and economic fabric.
Find out more about becoming a member today.
Or sign up for our twice-daily bulletins to get a flavour of the material we cover.
Sign up for our News Bulletins here.
Upcoming Events
