College Football is about to take over Dublin – here’s how to get in on the fun

Published 12:30 24 Aug 2026 BST

Brought to you by Aer Lingus College Football Classic

Game faces on, our capital city is about to come down with a serious case of football fever.

Football stars, cheerleaders, marching bands – the full American football experience is about to come to Dublin. Taking place on Saturday August 29th in Dublin's Aviva Stadium, the Aer Lingus College Football Classic is an authentic celebration of the grid iron, in all its glory. Irish viewers and dedicated fans alike will flock to the Dublin 4 sports ground to catch Texas Christian University's Horned Frogs face off against the University of North Carolina's Tar Heels.

With lots to see, lots to enjoy, and a whole sporting world to take a deep dive into, we've got the lowdown on everything you can expect as the Aer Lingus College Football Classic returns to Dublin.

The Main Event

The game itself takes kicks off in the Aviva at 5pm, with two powerhouse teams coming head to head. Both schools have a reputation for excellent football. The Horned Frogs are coached by Bill Belichick, who is widely considered the greatest coach in all of professional sports, with a record eight Super Bowls under his belt. North Carolina, meanwhile, is a world-renowned sports college, with alumni including 6-time NBA champion Micheal Jordan and FIFA World Cup Winner Mia Hamm.

Top-Tier Entertainment

The Aer Lingus College Football Classic is so much more than just a game. The teams won't be travelling alone – they'll be joined by their college's cheer teams, mascots and marching bands, and that all adds up to one incredible show. Expect phenomenal pre-game and half-time entertainment, as well as plenty of bonus pop-up performances across Dublin in the lead-up to game day.

The Ultimate Fan Experience

American football wouldn't be the game it is today without the incredible fans that make up its DNA. Legions of supporters of college football will be in town for the big day, and with heaps of fan events taking place, Irish supporters will have the chance to join them and bring the craic in droves. Join a tailgate party at one of the Official Guinness Tailgating Pubs in the city or near the Aviva Stadium, pick your squad and get in the mood for an unforgettable day with friends or family!

Tickets for the Aer Lingus College Football Classic are on sale now, with family and student rates available. Head to Ticketmaster.ie/collegefootball to secure yours today.