Ireland will host the largest-ever GAA World Games this July. A record 115 teams from across the globe will travel to Waterford for the tournament, taking place from 13th to 17th July 2026. Often referred to as the “World Cup of GAA,” the Games will bring together thousands of players competing in Gaelic football, hurling, camogie and LGFA.

Europe will form one of the strongest contingents, with 49 teams confirmed from across the continent. In particular, France and Spain are set to send some of their largest groups to date, with teams and supporters expected to travel to Ireland, including via Brittany Ferries routes, reflecting the strengthening links between Ireland and its European GAA communities.

Spain alone now has more than 1,100 registered Gaelic games players, with 11 male and female teams expected to compete in Waterford this Summer. Several teams are also expected from Galicia, reflecting the strong Celtic cultural links between Ireland and northern Spain and the continued growth of Gaelic games in the region.

Alongside the Games, Gaelic Games Europe is continuing its work to grow Gaelic football internationally through coaching and cultural exchange programmes. A previous initiative saw Armagh footballer Rory Grugan travel to France to coach Gaelic football through the Irish language. Building on that success, former Derry footballer and Australian rules player Anton Tohill will travel to Spain to work with clubs and players ahead of the World GAA Games, helping to promote Gaelic football and strengthen connections between Irish and European teams.

Christophe Matthieu, CEO of Brittany Ferries, said: “We are proud to support the GAA World Games and to assist teams travelling to Ireland to compete this summer, including those we are directly supporting from Brittany. Gaelic games are growing strongly across France and Spain, and as we sponsor two Gaelic football teams in Brittany it’s fantastic to see so many communities coming together through sport. We are delighted to help connect these teams with Ireland for what promises to be a fantastic international celebration of Gaelic games.”

The GAA World Games have grown significantly since they were first introduced, reflecting the continued expansion of Gaelic games internationally. From emerging clubs in continental Europe to long-established teams in North America and the Middle East, the tournament provides a unique opportunity for players of all backgrounds to compete on a global stage.

Travelling by ferry offers teams and supporters a practical and more sustainable way to reach Ireland, with the flexibility to bring sports gear, luggage and bicycles on board. 

Brittany Ferries is encouraging teams and supporters across France and Spain to start planning their journeys now, with a range of routes available to Ireland – with spring being an important time for booking travel ahead of the July tournament.