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Iowa State vs. Kansas State: Historic College Football Game in Dublin

Iowa State Football Set for Historic Clash in Ireland Against Kansas State: Financial Windfall and Global Exposure Await

In a groundbreaking move that blends international adventure with high-stakes college football, Iowa State University has secured a spot in the 2025 Aer Lingus College Football Classic, pitting the Cyclones against Big 12 rival Kansas State in Dublin, Ireland. This matchup, scheduled for August 23, 2025, at Aviva Stadium, marks a significant departure from traditional season openers, offering both teams a chance to kick off their campaigns on foreign soil. The game represents more than just a novel venue; it's a lucrative opportunity that could inject substantial funds into the Iowa State athletic program while providing invaluable exposure on a global stage.

The decision to participate in this overseas contest stems from a long-standing series of American college football games held in Ireland, which have grown in popularity since the tradition began in the 1980s. The Aer Lingus Classic, sponsored by the Irish airline, has featured prominent teams like Notre Dame, Navy, and Georgia Tech in recent years, drawing massive crowds and television audiences. For Iowa State, this will be the program's first international game, adding a layer of excitement and prestige to what is already a competitive rivalry with Kansas State. The Wildcats, too, are venturing abroad for the first time in this context, setting the stage for a clash that could influence early-season momentum in the Big 12 Conference.

At the heart of the appeal for programs like Iowa State is the financial incentive. Participating teams in the Aer Lingus Classic receive a substantial payout, designed to offset the logistical challenges of transatlantic travel and to reward the schools for promoting American football overseas. Sources indicate that each team stands to earn approximately $2.5 million for their involvement in the 2025 game. This figure is not a flat fee but rather a comprehensive package that includes direct payments, reimbursements for expenses, and revenue shares from ticket sales, broadcasting rights, and sponsorships. For context, similar international games have provided teams with payouts ranging from $1.5 million to $3 million, depending on the event's scale and negotiations.

Breaking down the financial structure, the bulk of the money comes from the event organizers, who partner with the Irish government and tourism boards to host these spectacles. Iowa State, for instance, will have most of its travel costs covered, including flights for the team, coaching staff, and a contingent of support personnel. Accommodations in Dublin, practice facilities, and even cultural excursions are typically subsidized, reducing the out-of-pocket expenses that might otherwise deter schools from participating. Beyond the immediate payout, there's potential for additional revenue through merchandise sales, alumni donations spurred by the excitement, and enhanced recruiting appeal. Athletic directors often view these games as investments, where the upfront costs are outweighed by long-term gains in visibility and fan engagement.

From Iowa State's perspective, this financial boost arrives at a pivotal time. The Cyclones' athletic department, like many in the Power Five conferences, faces escalating costs amid conference realignments and the evolving landscape of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals for athletes. The $2.5 million infusion could be allocated toward facility upgrades, scholarship funds, or bolstering the football program's recruiting budget. Head coach Matt Campbell has expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, noting in public statements that the game aligns with the program's values of building character through unique experiences. "This isn't just about football; it's about broadening horizons for our players and representing Iowa State on an international level," Campbell has said, emphasizing the educational and cultural benefits.

Kansas State, under coach Chris Klieman, shares similar sentiments, viewing the game as a chance to showcase their program to a wider audience. The financial aspect is equally appealing for the Wildcats, who could use the funds to support their recent successes, including bowl appearances and conference title contention. Both teams are expected to benefit from the exposure provided by a national television broadcast, likely on a major network like ESPN or NBC, which has aired previous Aer Lingus Classics. Viewership for these games often exceeds that of standard non-conference matchups, drawing in casual fans intrigued by the international flair.

Logistically, the trip to Ireland presents both opportunities and challenges. Teams typically arrive about a week early to acclimate to the time difference—Dublin is six hours ahead of Central Time—and to hold practices. The Aviva Stadium, with a capacity of over 50,000, is expected to be filled with a mix of American expatriates, Irish locals curious about the sport, and traveling fans from both universities. Iowa State boosters are already organizing travel packages, including tours of historic sites like the Cliffs of Moher and Dublin's cultural landmarks, turning the event into a full-fledged fan experience.

Critics of such international games argue that the long travel could lead to fatigue or injuries, potentially affecting performance in subsequent games. However, proponents point to successful precedents, such as Notre Dame's dominant win over Navy in Dublin in 2023, where the Irish team returned stateside without apparent setbacks. For Iowa State, the game against Kansas State—a team they've faced regularly in conference play—adds familiarity, reducing the risk of an upset due to unfamiliarity.

Looking ahead, this 2025 opener could set a tone for Iowa State's season. The Cyclones, coming off a campaign where they demonstrated resilience in the Big 12, aim to use this high-profile matchup to build momentum. A victory in Ireland would not only provide bragging rights but also a psychological edge in the conference standings. Financially, the payout ensures that even if the on-field results are mixed, the program emerges stronger off the field.

In the broader context of college football, events like the Aer Lingus Classic highlight the sport's growing globalization. With American football gaining traction in Europe through NFL international games and grassroots leagues, these college showcases serve as ambassadors, potentially expanding the talent pool for future recruits. For Iowa State, the financial rewards—coupled with the adventure of playing in Ireland—make this a calculated risk worth taking. As the countdown to August 2025 begins, anticipation builds not just for the game itself, but for the lasting impact it could have on the Cyclones' trajectory.

This venture underscores a trend where financial incentives drive innovative scheduling, allowing mid-tier programs like Iowa State to compete on equal footing with blue-bloods. The $2.5 million windfall, while significant, is part of a larger strategy to sustain competitiveness in an era of mega-conferences and billion-dollar media deals. Ultimately, the Dublin showdown promises to be a memorable chapter in Iowa State football history, blending sport, culture, and commerce in a way that benefits players, fans, and the university alike. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full Des Moines Register Article at:
[ https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/sports/college/iowa-state/football/2025/08/17/iowa-state-football-ireland-kansas-state-how-much-money-does-team-get/85682811007/ ]