The iconic Irish band Westlife has made a major announcement this morning, confirming both a new single and a five-night residency at Dublin’s 3Arena next September.
Speaking at a press conference in Dublin, the band revealed that their new track, titled ‘Chariot’, will be released next Friday, marking the beginning of a new era for the chart-topping pop group. The announcement comes as part of what they described as a “homecoming celebration” for fans across Ireland.
The group first broke the news exclusively on Classic Hits' Trina Mara Show, teasing that the single captures both their signature uplifting sound and a special connection to Ireland. “We’re really excited about it. We feel it’s a real bop. There’s a little nod to our home country too so look out for that. It’s all about finding the song we feel so passionate about, that is really going to do the job for us. And we think this one is.”
@irelandsclassichitsradio EXCLUSIVE 🚨 Trina Mara got all the tea on Westlife’s new single Chariot, Shane’s iconic ‘croak’ along with their freshly announced Dublin residency 🎤 More on ClassicHits.ie 🔗 #westlife @Westlife @3ArenaDublin ♬ Why Do I Love You - Westlife
At the press event, one member said “Ireland in particular is going to love it,” while another reflected on what returning to Dublin’s biggest indoor venue means for them. “We’re so excited to play in the 3Arena. It’s a really special venue for us. We’ve had so many after parties in here! All of our families have been here. It’s a special country, too, and we’re so proud to be Irish.”
The group, made up of Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne, Kian Egan, and Mark Feehily, are no strangers to sell-out shows at the 3Arena. Their residency will see them perform five back-to-back concerts, which they described as the most ambitious live production they’ve ever staged. “Our biggest and best show ever,” they promised.
The band also spoke about the unique atmosphere of the venue, known for its close connection between artists and fans. “3Arena is shaped in a special way, like a big rugby ball, which allows for more intimate gigs where everybody can get a good look,” one member explained, adding that the goal was to make fans feel as close to the music as possible. “Getting closer to the fans,” he said, “is what it’s all about.”
With a career spanning over two decades, Westlife remains one of Ireland’s most successful pop exports, with more than 55 million records sold worldwide, 14 number-one singles, and countless sold-out tours. Their return to the stage in Dublin next year will be their first major Irish residency since before the pandemic and is expected to draw fans from across the country and beyond.
‘Chariot’ will be the group’s first release since their 2023 album ‘Wild Dreams’, which featured collaborations with Ed Sheeran and Ryan Tedder. The new single is expected to set the tone for their upcoming performances, blending nostalgia with a modern sound.
While details of the track remain under wraps, insiders close to the band describe it as an energetic anthem that fuses classic Westlife harmonies with a contemporary edge. The group themselves hinted that the song was inspired by themes of home, resilience, and pride — a fitting reflection of their enduring connection with Irish fans.
The residency at the 3Arena is already being described by promoters as one of the most anticipated Irish concert events of 2026, with demand for tickets expected to be exceptionally high. For many fans, it will be a chance to relive the band’s greatest hits while witnessing their latest chapter unfold live.
As one of Ireland’s most beloved pop groups, Westlife’s ability to keep reinventing themselves while staying true to their roots has made them a defining act in Irish music history. With ‘Chariot’ on the horizon and a five-night Dublin run ahead, the band’s latest announcement feels like both a celebration and a statement — Westlife aren’t done yet.
@westlife
Found the keys… right where we left them 👀 DUBLIN - ARE YOU READY? 🇮🇪 We’ve got the keys to the 3Arena from 22nd September 2026 and we can’t wait to see you there!! THE RESIDENCY 2026: Tickets on sale Thursday 23rd October at 9am. Pre-sale starts Monday 20th from 9am - link in bio!
