Seán McDermott, Chair, Local Organising Committee; Former Mayor of Galway, Cllr. Mike Cubbard; Sally‑Ann O’Brien, Head of Tourism, Galway City Council. Photo: Boyd Challenger
GALWAY has been officially selected to host the European Masters Athletics Non‑Stadia Championships in 2028, marking a major international sporting win for the city and a significant boost to its growing reputation as a leading destination for sports tourism.
The successful bid was led by the Local Organising Committee in partnership with Galway City Council, Athletics Ireland, and The Irish Masters Athletics Association, and was confirmed by European Masters Athletics following its 2026 event in Italy.
Approximately 1,000 athletes from across Europe are expected to attend the championships, along with travelling support and family generating an estimated 3,000 international visitors and delivering strong economic impact for local businesses, accommodation providers and the wider visitor economy.
Participation‑based sporting events are recognised as a powerful driver of tourism, extending the season, increasing international visibility and encouraging repeat visitation. Hosting the Championships strengthens Galway’s position as a vibrant, world‑class city for sport, and major events.
Former Mayor of Galway, Cllr. Mike Cubbard (IND) said, “This is a fantastic achievement for Galway and a proud moment for our city. The Championships will bring thousands of athletes and visitors to Galway, showcasing our community spirit, our coastal setting and our ability to deliver major international events. We look forward to welcoming Europe’s masters’ athletes in 2028”.
Sally‑Ann O’Brien, Head of Tourism, Galway City Council said, “This is a strategically important win for Galway. Participation events like this deliver real economic impact, extend the tourism season and highlight Galway as a world‑class destination for sporting events, while strengthening our ambition to attract further international events”.
Seán McDermott, Chair, Local Organising Committee said, “It is a fantastic honour to host the 21st edition of this biannual event, which will see athletes take part in road racing, cross country relay, race walking and Nordic walking over 3 days in May 2028. This is the culmination of many years of planning in the hope of bringing an international masters event to Galway. We are delighted to have received the backing of Galway City Council, Irish Masters Athletics Association and also Athletics Ireland to enable our success in this bid”.
Planning for the event will now progress through the Local Organising Committee, with detailed race routes, venues and operational plans to be confirmed and published in due course.
