NEARLY TWO-THIRDS of Irish people think we should keep bringing major international sporting events to Ireland, according to a new attitudes report on tourism.

Meanwhile, over half (55%) of those surveyed said they thought investment in such events is good value for money.

In the past 12 months, Ireland has hosted an NFL regular season fixture between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings in Croke Park, as well as the Aer Lingus College Football Classic in the Aviva Stadium.

Adare Manor in Co Limerick is set to host the 2027 Ryder Cup, while Ireland will also co-host the Uefa Euro 2028 and the 2030 T20 Cricket World Cup.

New research by business advisory firm BDO Ireland and Amárach Research found that 53% of international sporting events hosted here “showcase Irish culture effectively”.

However, some 17% didn’t think they were good value for money.

Asked about their fears for the future of Irish tourism, respondents said they were most concerned about overpricing (39%), global conflict and the economy (12%), overtourism (10%), and accommodation and labour shortages (9%)

Crime and anti-social behaviour were also a concern.

Austin Hickey, director of BDO Ireland, said the apparent public buy-in provides a mandate for the government to continue investing in large international sporting events, but pricing could threaten their success.

“The public is highly sensitive to the issue of overpricing, which unsurprisingly tracks as the single greatest threat to our tourism ecosystem,” he said.

“To sustain the continuous growth that people want to see, the industry must balance high-value experiences with competitive pricing, while navigating systemic pressures like accommodation and labour shortages.”