Record 115 teams set for largest-ever GAA World Games in Ireland

Ireland will host the largest-ever GAA World Games this July, with a record 115 teams from across the globe set to descend on Waterford for the five-day tournament.

The international event, running from 13th to 17th July 2026, will bring together thousands of players competing in Gaelic football, hurling, camogie and LGFA, marking a major milestone in the global growth of Gaelic games.

Europe drives surge in global participation

Europe will form one of the strongest contingents at this year’s Games, with 49 teams confirmed from across the continent.

France and Spain are among the standout contributors, each sending some of their largest groups to date as interest in Gaelic games continues to surge beyond Ireland.

Spain alone now boasts more than 1,100 registered players, with 11 male and female teams preparing to compete in Waterford this summer.

Several teams are also expected from Galicia, underlining the deepening cultural and sporting ties between Ireland and northern Spain.

Growing links through sport and culture

The expansion of Gaelic games across Europe is being supported by ongoing coaching and cultural exchange programmes led by Gaelic Games Europe.

A previous initiative saw Armagh footballer Rory Grugan travel to France to coach through the Irish language, combining sport with cultural outreach.

Building on that momentum, former Derry footballer and Australian rules player Anton Tohill will travel to Spain ahead of the Games, working with clubs and players to strengthen skills and connections.

Major travel operation to bring teams to Ireland

With thousands of players and supporters expected to travel, ferry routes are playing a key role in connecting teams from mainland Europe to Ireland.

Brittany Ferries will facilitate key crossings between Ireland, France and Spain, helping transport both players and supporters for what is set to be a global celebration of Gaelic games.

Christophe Matthieu, CEO of Brittany Ferries, said:

“We are proud to support the GAA World Games and to assist teams travelling to Ireland to compete this summer, including those we are directly supporting from Brittany.

“Gaelic games are growing strongly across France and Spain, and as we sponsor two Gaelic football teams in Brittany it’s fantastic to see so many communities coming together through sport. We are delighted to help connect these teams with Ireland for what promises to be a fantastic international celebration of Gaelic games.”

A global stage for Gaelic games

Since their introduction, the GAA World Games have grown significantly, reflecting the sport’s expanding international footprint.

From emerging clubs in continental Europe to long-established teams in North America and the Middle East, the tournament offers players from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to compete on a global stage.

Travel demand builds ahead of July tournament

Travelling by ferry is expected to remain a popular option for teams and supporters, offering flexibility for transporting sports equipment, luggage and bicycles.

With demand increasing, Brittany Ferries is encouraging teams and supporters across France and Spain to begin planning their journeys early, with spring identified as a key booking period ahead of the July event.

Further information on routes between Ireland, France and Spain is available at www.brittany-ferries.ie.

The record-breaking scale of this year’s GAA World Games highlights not only the sport’s growing international reach but also Ireland’s continued role at the heart of a global Gaelic games community.

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At a glance

• Record 115 teams confirmed for 2026 GAA World Games

• Tournament takes place in Waterford from 13–17 July

• 49 teams travelling from across Europe

• Spain sending 11 teams and over 1,100 registered players

• Strong participation from France and Galicia

• Coaching programmes boosting international growth

• Brittany Ferries supporting travel from Europe

• Thousands of players and supporters expected