Texas Christian University (TCU) and the University of North Carolina…
The University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) will open the 2027 season against…
The thrill and excitement of high school American football will return to Ireland.
Truly experience the wonders that the Emerald Isle has to offer.
The ultimate Gameday experience.
Official tickets of the College Football Classic.
Voted in the top 10 friendliest cities in the world, and once you visit, you will understand why!
The land of myths and legends and the birthplace of Irish culture where vibrant history and modern life meet.
Experience Ireland's Hidden Heartlands and tap into the relaxed rhythm that defines this beautifully unspoiled part of Ireland where life moves at its own pace.
Experience what's been named "one of the greatest drives on earth", or explore the Giants causeway at the tip of County Antrim.
Stretching 2,500km along our western seaboard, the Wild Atlantic Way is the longest coastal touring route in the world.
ALCFC
January 18th 2025
Article written by Michael McQuaid, Pro Football Ireland.
For the first time in the history of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic series, an alumni team will take part in the National Championship Game.
Notre Dame will face Ohio State in Atlanta, Georgia this Monday as they look to win their first Championship since 1988.
Notre Dame in Dublin
This is a defining moment for the team - but also another addition to the experience of the Fighting Irish players, many of whom who set foot on the turf of the Aviva Stadium for their Week 0 matchup against Navy in August 2023 - a game that set multiple records with up to 39,000 fans travelling from the US to Ireland for the ooccasion.
When Notre Dame Head Coach Marcus Freeman walked into the press conferece room at the Aviva Stadium on Thursday before the game, he was about to start his third season in charge of the Fighting Irish.
You could not only see the excitement, but the understanding of what playing in Dublin meant to him on a personal level, also for the University of Notre Dame.
"There's Notre Dame fans everywhere over here. It's exciting, but a great reminder of the global impact this University has".
It's subtle reminders like that... I got off the plane and everybody's saying 'Go Irish'. It's a reminder that sometimes you take for granted how special this place is"
Getting the Job Done!
It was special indeed. The Fighting Irish excelled in their return to Dublin, winning 42-3 in the first game of the season. The game itself, a sell-out, was the most watched between the two sides in nine years, with it being broadcasted nationally in the United States.
Stars such as JD Bertrand, Audric Estime and Joe Alt have since been drafted in into the NFL ranks and have just completed their first season in the league.
This is a reminder of just how important the Aer Lingus College Football Classic is to not only the fans worldwide, but to that of the players and management. It is a chance for many to step outside of their comfort zone and visit a country that they may never have stepped foot in, while for Freeman and his players, it was a valuable experience which has kept them in good stead.
Notre Dame went on to have a 10-3 record that season, ranking top 15 in the nation.
On the Cusp of History!
This year, Notre Dame have really shown their worth. With an expanded College Football Playoff system, they have notched up a 14-1 record and they now sit on the cusp of history.
For many, it is the legacy of this game for Marcus Freeman and his players as they get ready to on Ohio State on Monday night.
There are so many players that are still with the Fighting Irish since that night in Dublin. One of the most notable is that of wide receiver Jaden Greathouse - one of the heroes of the College Football Playoff semi finals. He had a standout performance in Dublin, with two passing touchdowns on the day.
Also on the offense, Running Back Jadarian Price is still with the team, He scored a rushing touchdown in the opening quarter of the game. Backup Quarterback Steve Angeli played towards the end of the game in the Aviva Stadium. Mere months later, his experience would be called on in the biggest moments against Penn State - and he delivered a consistent performance.
On the defensive side of the ball, there are notable players who are still with the team. Linebacker Jack Kiser had six tackles and two assists against Navy at the Aviva, while Ryan Mills had two tackles and a sack in the 2023 opener.
A Return to Ireland?
While so much has changed for the South Bend team, so much has stayed the same.
For Marcus Freeman, he is only one game away from immortality in South Bend - and his time in Dublin will remain with him for the rest of his life.
"This week - what a great experience"
"I would love to come back"
We would love to have you back Marcus!
Register Your Interest for the 2025 Aer Lingus College Football Classic
Register your interest for exclusive news & updates as well as pre-sale ticket access before anyone else HERE.
General tickets for the 2025 game between K-State and Iowa State will go on sale March 6th.
At this moment, game tickets are currently available only with the purchase of hospitality packages. Packages are limited with only a small number remaining. Please email hospitality@collegefootballireland.com for more information.
#MuchMoreThanAGame | #TouchdownDublin | #TouchdownIreland
