IRFU Plans Annual Test Match in the US Through 2031
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) has ambitious plans to host Test matches in the United States annually until 2031. This strategy aligns with the upcoming Rugby World Cup, scheduled to be held in the US.
IRFU’s Expansion Plans in the US
IRFU Chief Executive Kevin Potts announced this initiative during a recent gathering in Chicago. The event coincided with Ireland’s third game against the All Blacks in the city since 2016. Potts highlighted the growing interest in rugby among Irish-Americans, noting the excitement surrounding the sport.
Significant Engagement from the Diaspora
- Potts attended an event with 600 Irish-Americans before Ireland’s captain’s run.
- The IRFU aims to leverage its 40 million-strong diaspora in the United States.
Potts emphasized the importance of enhancing rugby’s profile in the American market. He mentioned the opportunity to learn from the local sports culture and improve fan engagement.
Collaborative Efforts for Future Events
Alan Gilpin, Chief Executive of World Rugby, and Mark Robinson, Chief Executive of NZ Rugby, joined Potts in the Chicago briefing. They discussed the long-term strategy for rugby’s growth in the US, particularly leading up to the 2031 and 2033 World Cups.
Potential Cities for Future Matches
The IRFU is considering various locations for its matches, with Chicago as a regular venue. Los Angeles has also been mentioned as a prospective host city.
Both the IRFU and New Zealand Rugby see their centralized contract model as a way to facilitate additional matches outside official World Rugby windows. Although the All Blacks are likely opponents, Potts remains open to arranging games against other nations.
Scheduling New Matches
The integration of these Test matches could potentially introduce a 13th fixture for Ireland each year. This would occur outside traditional international windows, such as the Six Nations and other summer tours.
- Potts suggested potential scheduling during weeks like the current one, prior to the international fixtures.
- It could also be before Ireland’s summer matches in the Nations Championship.
World Rugby has confirmed that 27 cities are interested in hosting matches for the 2031 World Cup, further highlighting the potential for rugby in the US market.
