Ireland is gearing up for one of the largest international Gaelic games events in history. The 2026 oneills.com GAA World Games are set to take place in Waterford from July 13–17, bringing together 114 teams from around the globe for a spectacular celebration of Gaelic football, hurling, camogie, and culture.
A Truly Global Sporting Event
Taking place every three years, the World GAA Games represent the international reach of Ireland’s native sports. This fourth edition will see teams from Canada, the United States, Australasia, Europe, Iberia, and beyond descend on the southeast of Ireland. The opening ceremony kicks off in Waterford City on Monday, July 13th, with competition running through to finals day at the iconic Walsh Park on Friday the 17th.
More Than Just Sport
While the competition will be fierce across multiple pitches at SETU Arena (Waterford IT’s West Campus at Carriganore), the World Games are about much more than what happens on the field. The event is billed as a full celebration of Gaelic games, Irish culture, and global community spirit. Expect cultural events, music, food, and a carnival atmosphere throughout the city all week long.
The Apparel Opportunity
For the print and apparel industry, the GAA World Games represent a massive merchandise and custom teamwear opportunity. Each of the 114 registered teams requires branded jerseys, training kits, and supporter apparel. O’Neills, the official sportswear partner of the GAA, plays a central role in outfitting teams, but the event also drives significant demand for custom-printed fan merchandise, commemorative t-shirts, and local Waterford-themed gear.
Events of this scale — especially those tied to Irish cultural identity — consistently drive strong sales in personalized and on-demand apparel. Custom t-shirt designs featuring county crests, event branding, and Irish-language slogans are particularly popular with both visiting teams and local supporters.
A Boost for Waterford
Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, is no stranger to hosting major events, but the World GAA Games bring a unique international flavor. With thousands of players, officials, and spectators expected, the economic impact on local businesses — from hospitality to retail to printing services — is expected to be substantial. The hashtag #GAABelong has been trending as excitement builds in the run-up.
If you’re in the apparel or printing business, now’s the time to prepare. Major cultural and sporting events like the GAA World Games create a surge in demand for custom merchandise, and having the right designs and print capacity ready is key to capturing that market.
Sources: GAA.ie, Australasia Gaelic Games