There is no stopping Limerick when it comes to bringing the more imaginative side of Sporting Championships to Ireland.
Flag Football, Tag Rugby, Lacrosse, Dodgeball and Quidditch have all brought or will be bringing thousands of players and fans and now the hosting has been secured of the World Flying Disc Federation 2026 World Ultimate Club Championships.
It might not roll easily off the tongue but it is expected to bring approximately 3,500 athletes and team staff from across the globe to the University of Limerick campus for an action-packed eight-day tournament.
Building on Limerick’s strong association with previously staged international Ultimate Frisbee tournaments, WUCC 2026 is anticipated to generate a major economic boost for the region, with an estimated 30,000 bed nights created as athletes, coaches, and supporters descend upon the city.
The tournament finals will be livestreamed to an international audience, providing a unique platform to showcase Limerick and the Mid-West region to a global viewership.
“Limerick’s ability to attract an event of this scale is a reflection of our outstanding facilities and the city’s growing reputation as a premier sporting hub,” said Councillor Peter Doyle at the bid win announcement.
“We know from previous experience that hosting the WFDF 2026 World Ultimate Club Championships will not only provide an economic boost but create a wonderfully vibrant atmosphere across the city and county as we welcome the Ultimate community to our shores.”
The decision by WFDF to bring the World Ultimate Club Championships to Limerick follows the successful hosting of the WFDF 2022 World Masters Ultimate Club Championships, which saw overwhelming participation demand, and the EUF European Ultimate Championships in 2023.
Limerick’s successful bid was led by Siege Events in collaboration with UL Conference and Sports Campus, Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, Fáilte Ireland, and Limerick City and County Council.
“The last two editions of this event were held in Ohio, so we’re thrilled to be bringing the Event to Limerick in 2026,” said Tournament Director and Siege Events’ lead Liam Grant.
“The UL campus provides the perfect setting for a tournament of this scale, and we look forward to welcoming the international Ultimate community to experience the hospitality, energy, and passion that Limerick has to offer.”
“The Event will showcase elite Ultimate competition, with the world’s best club teams battling for championship titles in the Open, Women’s and Mixed divisions.”
“The event’s global live streaming component will ensure international exposure for both the sport and the region.”
“This event is worth almost €3 million to the local economy and will reinforce Ireland’s reputation as a leading destination for major international sporting competitions, a key focus area for Failte Ireland and the Bureau,” said Karen Ronan, General Manager, Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau.
“With teams travelling from the United States, Europe, and the Southern Hemisphere, many participants are expected to extend their stay beyond the tournament, further benefiting the local hospitality and tourism sectors.”
“University of Limerick successfully created an Olympic village-style atmosphere during the past two tournaments, offering athletes and supporters a seamless and immersive experience,” concluded David Ward, Sports Business Development Manager, University of Limerick Conference and Sports Campus.
“We look forward to building on this legacy and hosting the WFDF World Ultimate Club Championships at an even greater scale in 2026. This will be a truly exceptional event.”
Further Reading for Sport for Business members: European Dodgeball Championships 2025 Coming to Limerick
SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE
How can you not love the roll call of events being attracted to Limerick and the facilities it has to offer. It is the world of sport in full glorious colour and we will be looking forward to sampling sports for the first time over the coming months.
WHAT’S UP NEXT?
Our Second Annual Sports Tourism in Ireland Conference in partnership with UL will take place on Tuesday 29th April. Â
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