When the venue embarked on a major upgrade of its world‑class lighting system, the goal was clear: create a future‑proof, high‑performance, entertainment‑ready installation that matched the stadium’s stature. The project required not only cutting‑edge design and engineering, but also robust electrical infrastructure capable of supporting dynamic, high‑intensity lighting with absolute reliability.
This landmark redevelopment — delivered by McSherry Electrical and Musco Lighting — also became an important success story for LAPP, whose cable technology played a pivotal role in ensuring safety, performance, and long‑term durability at one of Europe’s most iconic venues.
A Transformative Vision for a National Treasure
The scope of the lighting project was ambitious in both scale and complexity. McSherry Electrical led the design, manufacture, and installation of a system that meets FIFA Level A, UEFA Elite Level A, NFL, and World Rugby lighting standards, replacing the previous infrastructure with a state‑of‑the‑art solution.
Beyond pure functional lighting, the upgrade also introduced:
- RGBW colour‑changing fixtures for fully immersive entertainment experiences
- Plug‑and‑play mounting positions designed for matchday and concert enhancements
- A custom-designed control system enabling dynamic “sound‑to‑light” shows, intuitive operation, and secure third‑party access
- The design and installation of a custom fibre network to support seamless connectivity across the stadium’s lighting ecosystem
This new system empowers Croke Park to elevate both sporting and entertainment events with breathtaking visuals, while maintaining the precision, consistency, and compliance expected at international level.
Where LAPP Comes In: Powering Performance, Reliability, and Safety
To achieve this level of sophistication, choosing the right cable system was essential. The electrical architecture powering modern stadium lighting must withstand mechanical stress, variable environmental conditions, and high electrical loads. All while meeting rigorous safety requirements.
LAPP supplied the LSZH Control Flex colour-coded cable for the project, a solution selected specifically for its technical qualities and dependable performance in demanding environments.
1. Uncompromising Safety in a High Capacity Venue
For a stadium that can host more than 80,000 people, safety was non‑negotiable.
LAPP’s LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) cables were chosen because:
- They are halogen-free and highly flame retardant, reducing the risk of flame propagation.
- In the event of a fire, they produce significantly less smoke and no toxic halogen gas, ensuring better visibility and safer evacuation routes.
You can find more information here: Halogen-free cables - They meet stringent EU Construction Product Regulation (CPR) classifications, ensuring tested performance in accordance with EU Directive 305/2011.
You can find more information here: CPR
This makes the cables ideal for public venues, where fire safety and people protection are paramount.
2. Engineered for Efficient Installation
Given the scale of the installation at Croke Park, efficiency was crucial.
In addition to meeting fire safety requirements, the LAPP LSZH Control Flex cables also convice with their ease of installation and flexibility:
- Exceptional flexibility for easier handling
- Smooth routing capabilities within complex infrastructures
- Reliable performance for both fixed installations and setups with occasional movement without tensile strain
These characteristics reduced installation time and helped streamline on‑site work during the project.
3. Built for Long Term Performance
Stadium environments can present tough electrical and environmental conditions. The selected LAPP cables are designed for:
- Universal use in machine‑internal and cross‑plant control circuits
- Performance in dry and damp spaces
- Resistance to medium mechanical stress
- High resistance to acids and alkaline solutions, an important factor considering the exposure levels in large-scale outdoor installations
This durability ensures that the lighting system maintains consistent performance throughout its operational life.
A Collaboration Built on Trust and Expertise
The project’s success was enabled by close collaboration between McSherry Electrical, Musco Lighting, and LAPP.
For LAPP, contributing to such a high-profile national project underscores the company’s role not only as a supplier, but as a technical partner. Brendan Maher, Business Development Manager for Ireland, supported the process by consolidating key technical information and ensuring accuracy regarding the product selection for the specific project.
By providing dependable, safety-focused, and easy‑to‑install cable technology, LAPP helped enable the precise control, dynamic lighting effects, and uncompromising safety standards that define Croke Park’s new lighting system.
Illuminating the Future of Live Experiences
Croke Park’s upgraded lighting system marks a new chapter for an already iconic venue. Beyond meeting elite sporting requirements, the installation unlocks new creative possibilities for concerts, ceremonies, and community events. From synchronised light shows to responsive colour effects that electrify the atmosphere, the stadium is now equipped to deliver unforgettable experiences.
The project demonstrates what is possible when innovative design, expert engineering, and high‑quality electrical infrastructure come together. For LAPP, it stands as a proud example of how the company’s technology contributes to safer, more dynamic, and more reliable environments, even at the largest and most celebrated venues.
As Croke Park continues to host the moments that move a nation, LAPP will be part of the invisible but essential backbone that keeps the stadium shining.