The IRFU is normally welcoming sponsors to its family but yesterday it stepped over the line with the announcement that it was to be a backer of what is known as the Gay Rugby World Cup when it comes to Dublin in 2019.
The bid was won by Dublin’s Emerald Warriors Club and the tournament will take place at Dublin City University for as many as 50 teams with an LGBTI focus from across Europe this time next year.
The IRFU will assist with promotional and operational aspects of the tournament as well as assisting with officiating at the games.
To mark the announcement, and the IRFU’s support of Dublin Pride, the IRFU will fly the iconic rainbow flag outside its Dublin headquarters throughout this weekend.
“Rugby prides itself on being an inclusive sport and we are delighted to assist the Emerald Warriors in hosting the Union Cup next year,” said IRFU Director of Rugby Development Scott Walker.
“We run a number of tournaments across the year so we hope to take away some of the complexity that comes with hosting a large tournament to allow the organising committee to concentrate on other matters, such as the warm welcome players always enjoy when they come to Ireland.”
“We are committed to promoting the tournament throughout the coming season and we believe this is an opportunity for everyone in Irish Rugby to celebrate diversity and inclusion and underline rugby’s commitment to a sport for all.”
“We are delighted to have the IRFU on board to support us in hosting Union Cup 2019,” added Damien Kavanagh, President of the Emerald Warriors and a member of the Organising Committee of Union Cup 2019.
“It is a strong indicator of Irish Rugby’s commitment to being diverse and inclusive. As participants in the Leinster league we have always felt welcomed and included by our Irish Rugby family.”
“The expertise and advice we will get from the IRFU will ensure that the core focus is on rugby of the highest standard and will add to the overall professionalism of the event. We can’t wait to welcome all the European IGR teams to Ireland and have them experience a traditional Irish welcome.”


Image Credit: James Crombie, Inpho.ie