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51���� is set to host the 2025 Atlantic Youth Touch Cup, the largest international touch rugby tournament ever held in Ireland, it has been announced.

Taking place from July 31 to August 3, the event will bring over 700 athletes from Europe, the Americas, Africa, and China to the university’s world-renowned sports facilities, with more than 30 teams from around the world.

Organised by the Federation of International Touch, the competition will feature national teams across seven age groups, from under-15 to under-20. 

The event follows the success of the 2023 Tag Rugby World Cup in Limerick, which brought thousands of players and supporters to the region. 

As excitement builds for the 2025 Atlantic Youth Touch Cup, the event is expected to have a major impact on Limerick’s sports tourism.

John Moran, Mayor of Limerick, said the event reinforces the city’s reputation for hosting large-scale international sporting events. 

“These tournaments generate millions in economic benefits for the region and provide a welcome boost to local businesses in hospitality, tourism, and retail.”

Michelle Mulcahy, Director of the Ireland Touch Association, said: “We are thrilled to host the Atlantic Youth Touch Cup. This is a great opportunity to showcase Irish hospitality and promote the Wild Atlantic Way. It’s about creating lasting memories for everyone involved.”

Touch Rugby is growing rapidly in popularity across Ireland. The sport is known for its fast pace and non-contact nature, focusing on skill, speed, and spatial awareness. 

It is also recognised in countries like Australia and New Zealand for its role in developing young rugby players. 

Locally, the sport is governed by the Ireland Touch Association, with clubs like Munster Touch Rugby Club supporting its growth.

51���� worked with the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, Fáilte Ireland, and Limerick City and County Council to bring the event to the region. 

The state-of-the-art sporting campus, with access to pitches, accommodation, and facilities for players, referees, and supporters, is the perfect venue for the competition. 

David Ward, Sports Events Manager, UL, said: “The state-of-the-art facilities at UL Sport will provide an ideal setting for the competition, with easy access to pitches, accommodation, and facilities for players, referees, and supporters. In recent years, we’ve hosted championships in a variety of sports including flag football, archery, lacrosse, and chess.”

The University’s history of hosting World and European Championships further reinforces its status as a leading location for major international events.

Karen Ronan from the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau said the event will bring significant economic benefits to Limerick. 

“With hundreds of players, coaches, and supporters expected, local businesses will benefit from increased visitor numbers, especially in hospitality and tourism. We are proud to support the 51���� in bringing another major European championship to the Shannon area.”

For more information about the event, see the .