College Football Comes to Dublin: Kansas State vs. Iowa State in 2025 Aer Lingus College Football Classic
the 2025 U.S. college football season will kick off in Dublin on Saturday, August 23rd, as the Aer lingus College Football Classic returns with a high-stakes matchup between Kansas State University (Wildcats) and Iowa State University (Cyclones) at the Aviva Stadium.
Broadcast live on ESPN to an estimated 4.5 million viewers, this game marks a historic first – the first-ever big 12 Conference game played outside the United States. The Big 12 is known for its intense, division-less competition, where the top two teams battle it out in the Championship Game, making every game crucial. Renowned for high-scoring, fast-paced action, deep-rooted rivalries, and passionate fans, the conference consistently sends teams to the College Football Playoff and serves as a major pipeline to the NFL. Alongside Kansas State and Iowa State, the Big 12 also includes Arizona State University, Brigham young University, and the University of central Florida.
This year’s Dublin game is billed as the most competitive college football fixture ever staged internationally, with both teams currently ranked in the top 25 and considered potential College Football Playoff contenders. Over 24,000 international visitors are expected, including 22,000 travelling fans from the U.S. A final release of tickets is available through Ticketmaster.ie, offering locals the chance to witness this sold-out spectacle.
A Full Week of Sport, Business and Culture
The game is the centerpiece of a week-long festival of sport, culture, and business. Dublin will be vibrant with tailgating events, pep rallies, and even a spectator flyover by an Aer Lingus aircraft. Over 250 performers, including 125 cheerleaders and band members from each university, will participate in pre-game events, culminating in a traditional marching band parade from the RDS to the Aviva Stadium.
Local pubs are embracing the spirit, with The Old Storehouse, Buskers, and Ryans of Beggars Bush designated as Kansas State fan hubs, while the Dame Tavern, Stag’s Head, and Crowes will welcome Iowa State supporters. merrion Square will host fan zones and pep rallies, and Energia Park will be the site of the Global Ireland Football Tournament (GIFT), a high school showcase linked to the college football series.
Economic and Tourism Impact
The Aer Lingus College Football Classic is projected to generate over €130 million for the Irish economy, with visiting fans expected to stay an average of seven nights and explore three destinations across the island. The four games held to date will have generated a cumulative economic impact exceeding €512 million.
“This is much more than a football game,” stated Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment. “It’s a celebration of culture, connection and economic possibility. The College Football Classic puts Ireland in the shop window for U.S. visitors and delivers for our economy, our tourism sector, and our international reputation.”
Legacy and Diplomacy Through Sport
The event also includes a range of initiatives focused on building lasting relationships and fostering cultural exchange.
Membership and Events
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This includes top sports teams and sponsors, commercial and state agencies, individuals passionate about the sports world, and a growing international audience interested in Ireland.
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