Confirmation of Ryder Cup dates 'offers Limerick businesses certainty'

CONFIRMATION of the dates of the 2027 Ryder Cup gives Limerick the chance to advocate for improved infrastructure, Chamber chief executive Michelle Gallagher has said.

Adare Manor is to play host to the premier golf tournament for a whole week, between Monday, September 13 and the following Sunday, September 19 in 2027.

The confirmation of the dates has been welcomed by the political and business community, with Ms Gallagher saying the certainty now allows firms to plan.

READ MORE: Ryder Cup organisers seek event licence for 2027 tournament in Limerick

“The business community will be welcoming the Ryder Cup with open arms. With the dates now out in the open, it will allow those in business to plan, especially those that will have the most exposure to attendees of the event,” she said.

The Chamber chief executive called for the organisers of the event to continue to be “transparent and timely” with small business owners around plans.

“If businesses have enough time and information to plan around any potential disruptions, or indeed increase in trade, it means they will be able to continue to facilitate customers during the event and help Limerick put its best foot forward,” she said.

Ms Gallagher says the tournament puts Limerick in a strong position to push for infrastructure “that can be used for the Ryder Cup and long after”.

“When it comes to the delivery of strategic projects, we need to ensure they will benefit the region long-term and are not provided for a short period only, thus ensuring the capital investment can benefit the community over a long number of years,” she added.

Mayor John Moran says the confirmation of the tournament’s dates represents “a moment of immense pride” for Limerick.

“Hosting the Ryder Cup is not just a sporting honour - it’s a moment when Limerick comes together as a community to welcome the golfing universe with open arms. They will get to see why we believe Limerick is one of the best places in the world, and not just to play competitive golf. It’s a cultural and economic opportunity that will showcase our county on the global stage,” said Mayor Moran.

The council’s priomh chomhairleoir Dan McSweeney described the tournament as “a once-in-a-generation moment for Limerick”.

“Hosting the Ryder Cup will bring global attention, visitors and investment to our region. It is a testament to the vision and hard work of JP and Noreen McManus and family, the Government of Ireland and so many who believe in what Limerick has to offer,” the Fine Gael councillor said.

It was first revealed Limerick would host the Ryder Cup in 2019.

Initially, the tournament was to take place next year, but following the Covid-19 pandemic, it was postponed for 12 months.

It means the event will be taking place a century after the first Ryder Cup tournament, which took place at Worcester, Massachusetts in the USA.

Since then, it has alternated between the USA and Europe.

It’s back Stateside (Bethpage Black in New York) this year, and then it's Limerick's turn, with Adare following in the footsteps of Kildare’s K Club, which hosted the tournament back in 2006.

Council director general Dr Pat Daly said: “This announcement is the result of years of dedication and planning. I want to thank our incredible council staff who have worked tirelessly to prepare for the moment. Their commitment ensures Limerick will shine on the world stage.”

Gratitude was also extended by the local authority to Limerick TD and the Minister for Sport Patrick O’Donovan, and his department.