Texas Christian University (TCU) Horned Frogs and University of North Carolina (UNC) Tar Heels arrived in Dublin just in time for the 2026 Aer Lingus College Football Classic at Aviva Stadium taking place on Saturday 29th August.
More than 14,000 American fans are expected to travel to Ireland for this year’s game, with visitors staying an average of seven nights and exploring destinations across the island.
Aer Lingus operated dedicated charter flights from Raleigh-Durham in North Carolina and Dallas Fort Worth in Texas, bringing players, coaches, support staff and equipment to Dublin.
Aer Lingus crews, operational teams and airport staff on both sides of the Atlantic began planning for the event late last year, ensuring a seamless journey for the teams.
The game comes just months after Aer Lingus launched its new direct service from Dublin to Raleigh-Durham International Airport in April. The route is already helping to strengthen business, tourism, academic and cultural connections between Ireland and North Carolina, while providing a convenient direct service to Dublin for fans travelling to this year’s game.
The Aer Lingus College Football Classic will be the fifth meeting between the football programmes of TCU and UNC
Susanne Carberry, Chief Customer Officer at Aer Lingus, said:
“We are delighted to welcome the TCU Horned Frogs and UNC Tar Heels to Ireland for the 2026 Aer Lingus College Football Classic. This event has become a highlight of Ireland’s sporting calendar, bringing thousands of fans to Dublin and showcasing the very best of Irish hospitality.
“As title sponsor, Aer Lingus is proud to help bring the teams and many of their supporters to Ireland for an event that strengthens the sporting, business and cultural ties between Ireland and North America. This year’s game is particularly special as we celebrate our 90th anniversary, marking nine decades of Aer Lingus connecting Ireland with the world.
“We wish both teams the very best of luck for the season ahead.”
