Waterford is preparing to welcome more than 2,000 athletes from across the globe as the 2026 World GAA Games get underway next week.
The five-day celebration of Gaelic Games runs from Monday, July 13th, to Friday, July 17th, with the opening rounds taking place at the SETU Arena before the finals are staged at Azzurri Walsh Park.
Among those returning home for the tournament is former Ballymacarbry hurler Diarmuid Murphy, who will represent the Middle East after playing with the Dubai Celts.
Speaking to WLR Sport, Murphy said the World GAA Games is unlike any other competition, bringing together players from every corner of the world who share a passion for Gaelic Games.
“It really is an eye-opener,” he said. “When you move abroad, you realise just how strong the standard of hurling and football is. We have players from England, Scotland and South America playing with us in Dubai, many of whom never picked up a hurley or football until they were adults.”
Murphy believes the event gives overseas-based players the chance to showcase the quality of Gaelic Games outside Ireland.
“When we come home, we want to show people how good the standard is in the Middle East. There’s a real sense of pride because you’re representing everyone who plays Gaelic Games where you’re based.”
The former Waterford club player says one of the biggest attractions of the World GAA Games is the opportunity for players from different cultures to come together through sport.
“You’ll meet people from New York, Brazil, Argentina, Australia and so many other places. There’s live music, cultural events and everyone mixes throughout the week. It’s much more than just the games.”
Murphy is encouraging Waterford sports fans to attend the tournament, even if they have never experienced the World GAA Games before.
“If you have a free hour or a free day, definitely come along. The atmosphere is brilliant, the standard of hurling and football will surprise people, and there’s so much happening away from the pitch as well.”
More than 2,000 athletes are expected to compete during the week-long festival, with teams travelling from around the world to compete in hurling, Gaelic football, camogie and ladies football.
WLR will provide comprehensive coverage throughout the week, including live broadcasts from the SETU Arena on Monday and Wednesday, as well as reports, interviews and updates from venues across the tournament before finals day at Azzurri Walsh Park on Friday.
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