A Key Step on the Road to LA28
The 4th European Games will take place in Istanbul, Turkey from 16 to 27 June 2027, one year out from the Olympic Games in Los Angeles. For Team Ireland, Istanbul represents a significant moment in the LA28 cycle: a major competitive platform, a qualification opportunity across multiple sports, and a chance to build the systems and experience that underpin Olympic performance.
A Broad Multi-Sport Programme
The European Olympic Committees have confirmed a programme of 26 sports and disciplines, with 22 directly aligned to the LA28 Olympic programme. Three sports feature at a European Games for the first time: Rowing (Beach Sprint), Weightlifting and Squash, the latter of which also makes its Olympic debut at LA28. Gymnastics, Volleyball and Wrestling return following their absence from Krakow 2023.
Confirmed sports
LA28 Qualification and European Championships Integration
Istanbul 2027 is expected to carry significant weight within the LA28 qualification window, with the potential for direct quota allocation and contribution to Olympic qualification through ranking systems across multiple sports. The European Games programme is also expected to incorporate European Championship competition, giving events added competitive status.
Final confirmation of qualification pathways and championship structures will be determined by the relevant International and European Federations. Team Ireland will work closely with National Governing Bodies as details emerge, with selection policies to be confirmed in due course.
Ireland at the European Games
Ireland has competed at all three editions of the European Games, building a medal profile that has grown significantly with each edition, from 6 medals in Baku to 13 in Krakow, with boxing and combat sports the consistent foundation of Team Ireland’s success.
