Belfast Airport has temporarily changed its name in the hope that it will boost the support for the Northern Ireland side in their Euro 2016 matches currently taking place in France. Previously named after Northern Irish footballing hero George Best, Belfast Airport is now – for a short period of time – the Kyle Lafferty Belfast City Airport, after the star striker.
Will Belfast Airport Name Change Prove Lucky?
This week, the Guardian reported that the Belfast Airport name change was intended to inspire Lafferty to glory in the opening Northern Ireland match against Poland. However, the one nil defeat they experienced on Sunday might have dampened spirits somewhat. But with three more games to go, let’s hope this re-christening of Belfast Airport will boost success in their remaining group matches.
An Inspired Move?
With Belfast Airport at the heart of the community and support for the national team at an all-time high following their first appearance at an international tournament in 30 years, the re-naming of the Belfast transport hub is a fitting tribute for such a historic occasion. Whether the move will work or not remains to be seen, but as an exercise in national solidarity and celebration, it shows their success in qualifying for Euro 2016 has certainly struck a chord.
A Boost to the Belfast Airport Profile
The re-naming of Belfast Airport to the Kyle Lafferty Belfast City Airport might be intended to boost footballing success, but will it have an effect of the success of Belfast Airport too? It could certainly prove influential, and with the celebrations currently in full-swing, there’s never been a better time to take advantage of the facilities on offer there.
For those who are considering travelling from Belfast Airport in the near future (perhaps even to see one of the group matches over the next few weeks), Belfast Airport parking options could certainly see a boost over the short term. With Belfast Airport parking facilities available both on and off site, football fans have a number of pricing choices, so an increase in popularity could be on the cards, along with a few victories for the Northern Ireland team.