Irish Open Drives Clare to the Fore of Irish Sport Tourism Once Again
Clare County Council has welcomed the announcement that the Irish Open is to return to the Banner County – as Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg, is named the host of the 2026 Irish leg of the European Tour.
The prestigious sporting event, last held in Co Clare in 2019, will bring some of the world’s leading professional golfers to west Clare, showcasing the region’s spectacular coastal landscape and world-class hospitality to a global audience.
Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Paul Murphy, said, “The Irish Open is one of the most significant sporting events on the island, and its return to Clare is a huge endorsement of what our county has to offer. Doonbeg is a stunning location, and I have no doubt that the 2026 tournament will be a memorable occasion for players, spectators, and the local community alike.”
The hosting of the Irish Open in Doonbeg follows the hugely successful staging of the event in Lahinch in 2019, which drew over 100,000 visitors to the region and generated significant economic, social and media impact. Clare County Council played a central role in coordinating local infrastructure, supporting event logistics, and promoting the county as a premier destination for sport and tourism.
Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Gordon Daly, said, “We are proud of the role the council and local community played in supporting the very successful 2019 Irish Open in Lahinch, which demonstrated the capacity of Clare to host major international events. The announcement of Doonbeg as the 2026 host venue is a testament to the strength of our local partnerships and the appeal of our county’s natural and cultural assets.”
“Clare County Council looks forward to working closely with tournament organisers, Fáilte Ireland, and local stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of the event again in 2026. The Irish Open will provide a welcome boost to the local economy, support job creation and enhance Clare’s reputation on the international stage. We are committed to maximising the long-term benefits for communities in west Clare and across the county.”
The 2026 Irish Open is expected to generate substantial visitor numbers, increased media coverage and a lasting legacy for tourism, sport, and community development in Clare.
Page last reviewed: 10/09/25
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