Croke Park to host 18,000 for double header including Westmeath-Kildare

The largest crowd at an Irish sporting fixture so far this year is being allowed attend the Leinster senior football semi-final double header that will include Westmeath's clash with Kildare on Sunday week, July 18.

The Minister for Sport Jack Chambers confirmed this evening that 18,000 spectators can attend the Westmeath game (2pm) and Dublin's meeting with their old rivals Meath the same afternoon (4.30pm).

The same number of fans is being allowed for the Kilkenny hurlers' upcoming meeting with Dublin, while 7,000 can attend the Munster hurling final.

Minister Chambers announced the spectator numbers on social media a short time ago:

Jack Cooney's side booked their place in the Leinster semi-final with a convincing victory against Laois last weekend.

Earlier today, the Westmeath GAA county board advised those interested in buying tickets for the Kildare game to contact their club secretary.