Buying tickets to see the Ireland national soccer team play can be an exciting experience for any fan. With some key information and advance planning, you can secure great seats to cheer on your team. Here is a guide to purchasing Ireland soccer tickets so you can enjoy live matches.
When do Ireland tickets go on sale?
Tickets for Ireland national team matches typically go on sale 2-3 months prior to the event date. The exact on-sale date will be announced on the Football Association of Ireland website and social media channels. Sign up for email notifications so you are alerted as soon as tickets become available.
Here are the typical windows for Ireland soccer ticket on-sale dates:
- World Cup qualifiers: 2-3 months before match
- Friendly matches: 1-2 months before match
- UEFA Nations League: 2-3 months before match
Popular matches like World Cup qualifiers will sell out extremely quickly, so you need to be ready to buy as soon as sales open. Have an account already set up with the ticketing website and be logged in at the precise on-sale time.
Where can I buy Ireland tickets?
The Football Association of Ireland website is the best place to purchase official tickets to Ireland games. The website is: https://www.fai.ie/domestic/fai-tickets
On the FAI Tickets page, you can see upcoming matches, ticket availability, prices, and direct links to purchase. There is also a ticket FAQ section that covers any questions you may have about the buying process and policies.
A limited number of tickets may also be sold through Ticketmaster Ireland for select high-profile matches. Check both the FAI website and Ticketmaster when sales open.
How much do Ireland tickets cost?
Ticket prices for Ireland national team matches can vary greatly depending on the opponent and venue. Here are typical price ranges:
- Friendly matches: €25-€70
- UEFA Nations League: €40-€120
- World Cup qualifiers: €50-€150
Category 1 matches against elite opponents like France, Germany, Spain at Aviva Stadium will be the most expensive. Games against lesser rivals or at smaller grounds will be cheaper.
There are also always reduced prices for juniors under 16 and seniors over 65. Expect to pay about 25% below adult prices if you qualify for these discounts.
Where do Ireland play their home matches?
The Ireland national team plays most of their home fixtures at Aviva Stadium in Dublin. The state-of-the-art arena opened in 2010 and can hold up to 51,700 spectators.
Some lower-profile matches like friendlies against weaker opponents may be held at smaller stadiums around Ireland. In recent years, other venues have included:
- Tallaght Stadium – Dublin
- Tolka Park – Dublin
- Turners Cross – Cork
Check the match details carefully when purchasing tickets. Make sure you are buying seats at the correct stadium.
Where are the best seats at Aviva Stadium?
Aviva Stadium is a compact arena with excellent views from all seats. However, some areas are considered better vantage points to see the action:
- East and West Stands – Closest to the halfway line and raised higher than the sideline seats.
- South Stand – Behind the goals, you’ll be closer to the action but behind the play.
- Premium Level – Halfway line seats in the middle tier with protection from the elements.
The North Stand is directly opposite the main TV camera and you may be visible on broadcasts. Sit here if you want to get on TV when celebrating Ireland goals!
Can I choose my exact seat?
Yes, when purchasing Ireland tickets online you can select your exact seat location in the stadium seating chart. This allows you to handpick seats with the view you desire.
Study the Aviva Stadium map closely when choosing seats to optimize your vantage point. East and West stands offer central views from higher up while South Stand and Premium Level get you closer to the pitch.
Are there accessible seating options?
Aviva Stadium has dedicated wheelchair and accessible seating areas. When buying Ireland tickets online, you can filter specifically for accessible seats to view availability.
There are wheelchair spaces in the East, West and South stands. Ambulant seating is also available for patrons needing aisle access.
Be sure to call the ticket office ahead of time if you require accessible seating so they can accommodate your needs.
Can I buy single Ireland tickets?
Yes, you can purchase single tickets if you are attending alone or in a small group. There is no requirement to buy multiple tickets together.
When selecting seats, single seats will be dotted around the stadium map rather than in blocks. Search for singles in your desired section and price range.
If attending with a large group, it may be better to all buy together to sit as a block. But singles are always available if needed.
Should I buy tickets from resellers?
It’s best to only buy from official sources like the FAI website and Ticketmaster. There are many ticket resellers online, but you risk purchasing fraudulent or invalid tickets.
Stick to the official ticket outlets for peace of mind. If those sell out, try fan forums or fan clubs that may have members reselling at face value.
When will I receive my Ireland tickets?
Ireland tickets purchased online are issued as printable e-tickets or on your mobile device. After buying, you will receive your tickets via email usually within 24 hours.
Be sure to print out the PDF tickets or have them downloaded on your phone. E-tickets must be shown at the stadium gates, no paper tickets are mailed out.
If you have not received your e-tickets 2-3 days before the match, contact the ticket office immediately.
Can I get a refund on Ireland tickets?
Ireland ticket refunds are only issued under special circumstances:
- Match is rescheduled or venue changed significantly
- Match is canceled or played behind closed doors
- Section of seating is closed off and tickets relocated
For standard buyer cancellations, refunds are generally not provided. Reselling your unused tickets privately is the best recourse.
Read the refund policy closely when purchasing so you understand the terms.
What identification do I need to enter the stadium?
All fans must present a valid photo ID to enter Aviva Stadium and other Ireland match venues. Only patrons matching the name on the ticket will be permitted entry.
Acceptable forms of ID include:
- Passport
- Driver’s license
- National identity card
Children under 16 can provide student photo ID, travel cards, or other verified identification. Bring valid ID for everyone in your party to avoid issues.
What items are prohibited inside the stadium?
To maintain fan safety and security, certain items are prohibited from being brought into Aviva Stadium:
- Alcohol and glass bottles
- Cans, flasks, and liquid containers
- Backpacks larger than A4 size
- Hard coolers and hampers
- Selfie sticks and professional cameras
- Knives, firearms, weapons
- Laser pointers, air horns
- Smoke canisters, flares, fireworks
Bags will be searched on entry. Leave prohibited items at home or you will be denied admission.
Can I bring food and drinks to my seat?
Outside food and drinks cannot be brought into the seating areas at Aviva Stadium. There are ample concessions inside selling food, drinks, and snacks.
Small amounts of factory-sealed water and soft drinks are permitted. Also, sweets, sandwiches, and snacks like chips, chocolate, etc. for personal consumption are allowed.
Alcohol purchases are limited to two beers per person per transaction at the stadium bars.
When should I arrive for the match?
To get through security screening and find your seats, you should arrive at least 1-2 hours early for Ireland matches. Gates typically open 2 hours before kickoff.
Give yourself enough time to enjoy the atmosphere, grab refreshments, and be seated for pre-match activities like anthem ceremonies.
Arriving at least 90 minutes early ensures you won’t face last-minute congestion at the gates right before start time.
Conclusion
Ireland soccer provides an incredible live event for loyal fans. By planning ahead, purchasing tickets early from official sources, and preparing properly, you can have an amazing experience cheering on your team.
Aviva Stadium delivers a world-class venue to soak in the action and atmosphere. Follow this ticket buying guide and enjoy spectacular Ireland matches for years to come!