Paris, 24th June 2025 – At a special reception hosted by His Excellency Ambassador Niall Burgess, Gaelic Games Europe (GGE) marked the beginning of an ambitious new chapter, unveiling a strategic partnership with global industry leader Kingspan. This collaboration signals more than sponsorship – it represents a partnership of shared vision, a united mission, and a commitment to scaling Gaelic sporting culture across Europe’s evolving landscape.
“Gaelic Games Europe embodies the very spirit of adventure – boldly exploring the limits of possibility and pushing into new horizons,” said Diarmuid O’Donnovan, Sponsorship Officer at GGE. “Our partnership with Kingspan is not just about support; it’s about aligning our ambition with a partner whose global scale and capacity for innovation match the trajectory of our own growth.”
From bustling cities to remote communities, the spirit of Irish sport and culture is capturing hearts across the continent. Today, Gaelic Games Europe (GGE) boasts over 100 clubs in more than 20 countries, with a playing membership of nearly 4,900—half of whom are non-Irish, reflecting the broad international appeal of our games.
Gaelic Games now flourish in every corner of Europe, from vibrant urban clubs brimming with potential to smaller, tight-knit communities whose embrace of the Gaelic ethos is truly inspiring. Demand has surged across all codes, with participation in GGE’s flagship Féile event increasing by more than 200% since its launch in 2022.
To support this unprecedented growth, GGE is reinforcing its foundation: expanding administrative capacity, investing significantly in youth and volunteer development, and rolling out new regional governance structures designed to future-proof the organisation. Central to this is coaching: in 2025, seven certified coaching courses will be delivered across Europe by qualified European coach developers, with accreditation from Sport Ireland Coaching—nurturing the next generation of players and mentors.
This incredible momentum presents both significant opportunities and fresh challenges, and strategic partnerships are vital to the Games’ continued growth. This new title sponsorship with Kingspan represents more than just financial support; it’s a shared vision for growth, professionalism, and community impact.
To build a sustainable future for Gaelic Games in Europe, the organisation, in line with its strategic plan launched in partnership with World GAA and twinning partner Leinster GAA, is strengthening its administrative foundations, reviewing its games programme, investing in youth and volunteer development, and focusing on regional self-sustaining growth and governance.
Chris Collins, Head of Operations at Gaelic Games Europe, commented:
“We’re absolutely thrilled to partner with a global leader like Kingspan for the next two years, and hopefully beyond, not just because of their scale, but because they share our values of community, innovation and sustainability. This partnership strengthens our ability to grow the games across Europe and provides an incredible boost to our players, coaches and volunteers working on the ground. It’s a real milestone moment for Gaelic Games in Europe.”
Richard Beswick, Global Sports Sponsorship and Partnership Manager at Kingspan, added:
“As a global Irish business with deep roots in the GAA, we are proud to support Gaelic Games Europe. We have a long history of supporting Gaelic Games in Ireland, and this partnership allows us to extend that commitment across Europe. It also offers a wonderful opportunity for our teams on the continent to connect with a significant part of our shared heritage.”
This sponsorship marks a significant step forward for Gaelic Games in Europe. With the backing of a partner whose scale and ambition match their own, Gaelic Games Europe is better positioned than ever to grow the games, support its clubs, and bring the excitement of Gaelic sport to new communities across the continent.
