Kansas State vs. Iowa State Game Set to Boost Irish Economy €130M

UPDATE: The upcoming Aer Lingus American Football Classic between Kansas State University and Iowa State University is poised to deliver an astonishing boost of over €130 million to the Irish economy. Scheduled for 5 PM on August 23 at the Aviva Stadium, this highly-anticipated matchup will draw approximately 24,000 international fans, predominantly from the United States.

With an estimated 22,000 American fans making the journey to Dublin, this game marks the kickoff of the 2025 College Football season, also known as ‘week zero’. Both teams are ranked in the top 25, making this one of the most competitive games ever held outside the U.S. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN, with expectations of reaching over 4.5 million viewers in the U.S. alone.

The rivalry between the Wildcats and Cyclones, famously known as ‘Farmageddon’, adds to the stakes, as the victor is expected to contend in the 2025 College Football playoffs. This historic event is particularly significant as it marks the first Big-12 conference matchup ever played on Irish soil.

According to a recent report by Grant Thornton, the economic impact of hosting the Aer Lingus Classic football games has been profound. The report states that previous college games have generated €382 million for the Irish economy, and this event is projected to push that total beyond €512 million.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “On August 23, Kansas State and Iowa State Universities will face off in what promises to be a superb spectacle, much more than a football game, rather a celebration of culture, connection and economic opportunity.”

In preparation for the game, Dublin is set to host various festivities, including tailgates and pep rallies throughout the city. Merrion Square will serve as the location for these events, allowing fans from both universities to unite. A special band march from the RDS to the Aviva Stadium will further enhance the celebratory atmosphere on game day, featuring over 125 members from each university’s band and cheer teams.

Additionally, an Aer Lingus aircraft will perform a flyover at the Aviva Stadium before kickoff, adding to the event’s excitement. Coincidentally, August 23 will also see pop icon Robbie Williams perform at Croke Park, making it a bustling day for Dublin and a substantial boost for the local economy.

This report underscores how American College Football games have significantly contributed to enhancing tourism and fostering connections between the U.S. and Ireland. The positive impact is set to continue, as Dublin prepares to host its first-ever regular season NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park on September 28.

As the excitement builds for this monumental event, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to participate in the festivities leading up to the game, ensuring that this occasion will resonate throughout Dublin’s economic landscape for years to come. Stay tuned as we bring you the latest updates on this thrilling event!