The Aer Lingus College Football Classic has announced a major new partnership with Guinness, ahead of the highly anticipated 2025 and 2026 games set to take place in Dublin’s Aviva Stadium.
Guinness is set to play a central role in elevating the atmosphere both in the stadium and across the city throughout game week.
The 2025 fixture on August 23rd will feature the first-ever Big 12 Conference matchup on Irish soil.
Kansas State University will take on Iowa State University in a clash that opens the 2025 college football season on ‘Week Zero’. One year later, Texas Christian University will face the University of North Carolina, coached by Bill Belichick, in the final game of the initial five-game series.
Guinness will bring the occasion to life through an extensive series of activations designed to transform Dublin into a college football hub, blending American sporting spectacle with Irish hospitality.
Fans will enjoy fresh pints of Guinness in-stadium, and across the city, selected pubs will become official fan hubs for K-State and Iowa State supporters, complete with matchday atmospheres, events, and tailgating experiences.
The Guinness Storehouse will also join in the celebration, with extended hours, themed food specials, and the return of custom ‘STOUTies’ featuring team logos, offering fans a truly immersive experience.
Speaking at the announcement, Brendan Meehan, Commercial Director of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, said:
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Guinness as an official partner of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic. This collaboration is a perfect match, bringing together two iconic brands that truly understand the power of shared experiences and celebration.”
“We know Guinness will play a pivotal role in elevating the game week atmosphere, ensuring our visiting and local fans have an unforgettable time both at the Aviva Stadium and across Dublin.”
Ross Bissett, Commercial Director for On-Trade IOI at Diageo Ireland, echoed the excitement.
“Guinness has always been about bringing people together, fostering connection, and celebrating moments that matter. This partnership is a natural fit, and we are so excited for fans to experience our game week build-up in pubs and venues across the country.”
“We can’t wait to create an unparalleled atmosphere of camaraderie and celebration for fans, both in the stadium and across some of Dublin’s most renowned pubs.”
The official Aer Lingus College Football Classic Game App, launching next week on the App Store and Google Play, will provide details on tailgating pubs, fan events, and more.
Among the other partners of the event are Fáilte Ireland, Dublin City Council, Leopardstown Racecourse, the US Embassy, Amgen, Applegreen, Teeling Whiskey, Amgen, Clayton Hotels, Enterprise Ireland and Grant Thornton
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