Bangkok Welcomes the Asian Gaelic Games 2025

On 22 and 23 November, the city will be buzzing with sliotars, footballs, and a whole lot of craic as it hosts the Asian Gaelic Games (AGG) 2025 - the biggest Irish cultural event in Asia. Think of it as a mini Croke Park… but with pad Thai!

Over 800 players and supporters from 20+ clubs across Asia will descend on the Thai capital to battle it out in Gaelic football, hurling, and camogie. There’ll be competitions for men, women, and children, across all levels - Senior, Intermediate, and Junior - so whether you’re a seasoned pro or just there for the vibes, there’s something for everyone.

But the AGG isn’t just about sport. It’s about community, connection, and celebrating Irish identity - even if you’re thousands of miles from home. Since its first kick-off in Manila back in 1996, the Games have travelled to cities like Singapore, Shanghai, and Seoul, bringing Irish expats and local fans together in one big, joyful, muddy hug.

And if you think the adults are having all the fun…think again. The Asian Youth Championship takes place the weekend before, on November 15 in Hanoi, Vietnam, giving the next generation of Gaelic stars their moment in the spotlight.

We had a chat with Joe Trolan, Development Officer for the Asian County Board, who shared how Gaelic games can be a lifeline for the diaspora living abroad, especially in countries where English isn’t the main language. It’s more than just sport; it’s a ready-made community, a familiar accent, and a reason to get out and kick a ball when everthing else feels new.

So, whether you’re in Bangkok, Hanoi, or just watching from afar, this is your sign to get involved, cheer loudly, and maybe even dust off your boots.

The AGG 2025 is coming. And it’s going to be class.

What sport do you play? How does being part of the GAA community abroad help you stay connected to Northern Ireland?

I Play Gaelic football and hurling (though getting on a bit now) and used to play football.  It’s a huge part of being involved honestly and nothing better than being at an event and hearing an Northern Ireland accent - we tend to always gravitate to each other once we hear it and that builds the community.

In what ways has the GAA community / Asian Gaelic Games helped you build connections with other Northern Irish people overseas?

Many of us would never have known each other at home be it that we lived in different parts of the country or come from different backgrounds - what the GAA does in Asia is that it allows us to enjoy the sport without any preconceptions of each other.  By this I mean the historical context of sport in Northern Ireland.

What role do you think sport plays in keeping the Northern Irish diaspora united, no matter where they are in the world?

Honestly, it’s such a great social bridge between people who come from all different backgrounds and areas - I have friends from all over Northern Ireland due to the AGG and when we go to tournaments we will always find a way to celebrate the craic off the pitch.

What message would you send to people back home about the impact of the GAA community abroad?

That a sport that is framed as a local sport is now the opposite - it is played in every corner of the world with over 400 plus clubs.  It is a great example of how sport can bring us together no matter where we come from. For those from the island of Ireland it is a home away from home and for those not born on the island it is a fun exciting sport that embraces community inclusion and friendship.   

Will you be there? 
If so, don't forget to tag us on our socials: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn or X and let us know where you’ll be! You know we always love hearing from you! 

Photos courtesy of Sean Carless & Joe Trolan