Donald Trump to attend Irish Open in County Clare amid planned protests
Donald Trump is set to visit County Clare for the Irish Open, meeting Irish President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheal Martin, while demonstrators prepare for his arrival.
The 2026 Irish Open launches at Trump International Golf Links & Hotel in Doonbeg, County Clare, the first time the course hosts the event. President Donald Trump will land on Saturday as part of a two-day diplomatic trip, meeting Irish President Catherine Connolly and Taoiseach Micheal Martin, and is expected to present the champion's trophy on Sunday. The tournament draws a star-studded roster, with Rory McIlroy defending his title, Jon Rahm chasing a third win, and a mix of LIV Golf players such as Tyrrell Hatton and Joaquin Niemann adding intrigue.
Local sentiment is mixed, and organized protests are planned for the president's arrival in the small village. The event follows a recent Walker Cup victory on nearby Lahinch and serves as a warm-up for next week’s BMW PGA Championship. The convergence of high-level politics and elite golf is set to make this Irish Open one of the most talked-about editions in recent memory.
