A Kilkenny councillor is calling on the Government to explore the possibility of bringing WrestleMania to Ireland, describing it as a major opportunity for tourism and the wider economy.
In a statement shared on social media, Maurice Shortall confirmed he will bring a motion before Kilkenny County Council asking the local authority to formally contact Government ministers and State agencies about pursuing a bid.
Shortall said WrestleMania is “one of the world’s largest live entertainment and sporting spectacles” and believes hosting it in Ireland would deliver huge international attention and economic benefits.
“As a globally recognised event with the capacity to attract tens of thousands of international visitors and generate substantial international media exposure, WrestleMania presents a significant opportunity for Ireland to strengthen its position as a leading destination for major event tourism.”
The motion calls on Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, and Patrick O’Donovan, Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, along with agencies including Fáilte Ireland and Sport Ireland, to assess whether Ireland could realistically host the event.
While the event itself would most likely take place in Dublin, Shortall believes the impact would spread well beyond the capital.
“The wider regional benefit to counties such as Kilkenny would be substantial, with strong potential for tourism spillover, increased domestic travel, and enhanced international visibility for Ireland’s secondary tourism destinations.”
The councillor also pointed to Ireland’s recent success hosting major international events and said the country has a strong case to make.
“Ireland is well placed to present a credible and competitive bid for WrestleMania, given our strong international tourism brand, proven track record in hosting major events, and global reputation as a welcoming destination.”
If progressed, the motion would see Kilkenny County Council formally urge the Government and tourism stakeholders to engage with the appropriate partners to examine Ireland’s capacity to host WrestleMania in the future.
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