Irish Race Day at Hoppegarten Attracts Over 9,000 with Embassy Support
Embassy of Ireland brings community spirit and diplomatic flair to Berlin’s premier racecourse
July 01st, 2025
On May 11, 2025, the Irish Race Day returned to Hoppegarten Racecourse near Berlin, welcoming over 9,000 attendees for an afternoon celebrating Irish culture, sport, and community. The event was sponsored by the Embassy of Ireland in Berlin and featured the participation of Deputy Head of Mission John Lynam, with Ambassador Maeve Collins presenting the Ambassador of Ireland Race Prize.
The race day was a vibrant occasion showcasing Irish music, themed activities, and public diplomacy. Guests were greeted with live traditional Irish music, family-friendly entertainment, and a cultural program that included pony rides, food stalls, and a festive beer garden. The event opened with remarks and awards presented by the Irish diplomatic team, emphasizing the role of the embassy in promoting Ireland’s cultural presence in Germany.
Ambassador Collins personally awarded winners in the featured race, reinforcing the embassy’s ongoing engagement with the public and supporting people-to-people relations through cultural events. Deputy Head of Mission John Lynam joined other embassy staff in welcoming guests and representing Ireland in one of Berlin’s largest spring outdoor gatherings.
Irish Race Day at Hoppegarten is a key example of sports and cultural diplomacy, where an official diplomatic presence transforms a public event into a platform for soft power, exchange, and connection between Ireland and Germany.
