President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Ireland next month to attend the Irish Open golf tournament at his golf course in Doonbeg, County Clare. The trip is planned for September 12 and 13.
During his visit, Trump will participate in an event with U.S. embassy workers and business officials before attending the tournament at Trump International Golf Links Ireland. The White House official who confirmed the trip was not authorized to speak publicly and requested anonymity.
This visit continues a pattern of the president blending official duties with travel that can benefit his family's business interests. While his sons manage the day-to-day operations of the Trump Organization, Trump's presidential term has provided opportunities to enhance the company's profitability. Trump's golf courses have previously hosted professional tournaments, including a LIV golf event at his New Jersey course in August. His Doral resort in Florida is slated to host a PGA event in 2028.
Trump's travel has also drawn attention for its frequency and alignment with his business holdings. Last summer, he visited Scotland to play golf at Turnberry, a course he owns, and to inaugurate a new Trump course. The White House described that trip as working travel, during which Trump also engaged in trade discussions with British officials.
Trump has previously expressed skepticism about vacations, writing in his 2004 book "Think Like a Billionaire" that there is "no point" in taking them. Despite this, he has frequently traveled to his own golf properties in Florida, New Jersey, and Virginia. This trip to Ireland comes shortly before he is expected to campaign for Republicans in the lead-up to the November midterm elections, with the GOP planning a national convention event in Dallas on September 9-10.
Last year, Trump criticized former President Barack Obama for long-distance travel for golf. Trump himself has undertaken similar journeys, including a trip to Scotland, and has spent extended periods at his Mar-a-Lago club, which also hosted visits from foreign leaders.