BY JAMIE CONLON
Galway has been officially selected to host the European Masters Athletics Non-Stadia Championships in 2028.
The successful bid was led by the Local Organising Committee in partnership with Galway City Council, Athletics Ireland, and The Irish Masters Athletics Association. Their selection was confirmed by European Masters Athletics following its 2026 event in Italy.
Former Mayor of Galway Cllr Mike Cubbard said that 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."
The Championships are expected to attract approximately 1,000 athletes from across Europe, 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.
Sally?Ann O’Brien, Head of Tourism at Galway City Council believes that 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," she added.
Chair of the Local Organising Committee, Seán McDermott stated it is a "fantastic honour" to host the 21st edition of the European Masters Athletics Non-Stadia Championships.
"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.
