Connacht confirm Munster clash at Mayo’s iconic MacHale Park

"We are proud to represent the whole province of Connacht"

The two provinces will meet on Saturday the 29th of March, with crowd of up to 15,000 expected, providing significant funds for Mayo GAA, eight days before they begin their Connacht SFC against Sligo at the same venue.

It will be the first Connacht game in Mayo since the beginning of the professional era, as they follow the three other Irish URC teams in playing matches in GAA stadiums.

Ulster hosted Glasgow in pre-season friendly at Cavan's Breffni Park in 2023. Leinster have played multiple times in Croke Park, with two sold-out games this year. Munster have also togged out in Páirc Uí Chaoimh in recent years.

Tickets will begin at €20 for adults, €15 for young adult/senior, and €5 for juniors, with season tickets valid. They go on sale on January 13, with early access on January 10 for those who sign up.

For more information visit Connacht Rugby's website here.

CEO Willie Ruane said: "This promises to be not only a great occasion for Connacht Rugby supporters but also for the very many people all across the province who love sport more generally, whatever the code.

"I want to thank and commend Mayo GAA for the extremely positive and collaborative manner in which they have engaged with us, and in ultimately agreeing to allow us play in the great facility that is Hastings Insurance MacHale Park."

Head coach Pete Wilkins said: "We are proud to represent the whole province of Connacht, and we look forward to sharing this great occasion with our existing supporters and getting out to meet many more new supporters from all across the province."

Club captain Cian Prendergast added: "All the players were absolutely delighted when told the news.

"The opportunity to play in front of a massive home crowd, in the heart of the province, is something to really look forward to.

"Our supporters are amongst the best there are, and we know the passion that the people of Mayo, and Connacht more widely, show every time they support their teams, whatever the code or colour of the jersey. We will be doing everything we can to feed off and match that passion in the performance we deliver on the day."