Ireland vs All Blacks: Unveiling the Financial and Historical Stakes of 2025 Rematch
The highly anticipated rematch between Ireland and New Zealand, known as the Gallagher Cup, is set to take place on November 1, 2025, in Chicago. This match marks the first time the two teams will face each other in the Windy City since their historic encounter in 2016.
Historical Context of the Rivalry
Historically, New Zealand dominated this rivalry, winning all their test matches against Ireland for over a century. However, the tide began to shift in 2016 when Ireland secured a monumental victory at Soldier Field, defeating the All Blacks 40-29. This defeat ended a remarkable 18-match winning streak for New Zealand and sparked a renewed competitive spirit between the two teams.
- Significant Matches:
- 2016: Ireland wins 40-29 in Chicago
- 2019: New Zealand defeats Ireland at the Rugby World Cup
- 2023: Another World Cup quarter-final victory for New Zealand
Current Team Dynamics
As these two rugby giants prepare to clash, current All Black players acknowledge the significance of their past encounters. Fullback Will Jordan, who watched the 2016 match as a teenager, emphasizes that the upcoming game isn’t merely about seeking revenge, but rather an opportunity to create new history.
Ticket Sales and Fan Interest
The demand for tickets to the Gallagher Cup has been overwhelming. Within the first 24 hours, nearly 50,000 tickets were sold, with the entire allocation quickly selling out. Ticket prices began at $100, but the average sold for around $432, indicating strong interest from both local and international fans.
A breakdown of ticket sales shows:
- 78% sold in the U.S.
- 22% sold internationally
- 31% of tickets purchased from Illinois
- Approximately 11,000 fans from Ireland and several hundred from New Zealand
Economic Impact of the Match
Financially, the Gallagher Cup is expected to generate significant revenue for both teams. While specific figures remain undisclosed, New Zealand Rugby anticipates this matchup to yield the highest profit from any offshore game to date. In terms of sustainability, the financial benefits of playing in the U.S. are a major attraction, particularly for New Zealand, where the domestic market limits earnings due to its size.
Official Travel and Hospitality Packages
All Blacks fans traveling to the match have the option to purchase premium packages through All Blacks Travel and Hospitality (ABTH). These packages provide not just match tickets but also unique experiences such as dining and exclusive events with former All Black players. The cost for these packages is approximately 3,500 New Zealand Dollars (about $2,000), which does not include airfare.
The Gallagher Cup rematch between Ireland and the All Blacks is not just a rugby match; it symbolizes the thrilling evolution of their rivalry and the expanding footprint of rugby in the U.S. as major tournaments approach.
