Galway City Councillor Michael Crowe has written to Connacht Rugby Chief Executive Willie Ruane, encouraging the province to consider Pearse Stadium in Salthill as the venue for a potential Challenge Cup semi-final, should Connacht reach the final four of the competition.
With Dexcom Stadium currently operating at reduced capacity, Cllr Crowe highlighted the opportunity to host the fixture at a larger venue, allowing more supporters to experience what would be a landmark sporting occasion in the west.
“This is a chance to give as many people as possible the opportunity to be part of a special moment in Connacht Rugby’s European journey,” said Councillor Crowe. “Pearse Stadium offers the capacity and setting to deliver that.”
The proposal builds on the success of Connacht Rugby’s recent United Rugby Championship fixture against Munster at MacHale Park in Castlebar, which drew a sell-out crowd of over 27,000 and was widely praised for its atmosphere and impact.
“That game in Castlebar showed what’s possible when we think outside the box. A Challenge Cup semi-final at Pearse Stadium would build on that success and bring another major sporting event to the heart of Galway,” Councillor Crowe said.
He also noted that both Dexcom Stadium and Pearse Stadium have received significant public investment from Galway City Council and national Government, and emphasised the value of using these assets collaboratively to promote sport and economic activity.
