Why Irish Rugby has scrapped off the men’s sevens program
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Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 15.05.25. | 21:43
The decision follows recommendations from two independent reviews, one by World Rugby and another commissioned by the IRFU through Portas Consulting
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) has announced it will discontinue its men’s sevens program at the end of the 2024/25 season.
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This decision comes after a period of financial challenges and a shift in strategic priorities. It follows a detailed review of all IRFU programs after the 2024 Olympic cycle and comes amid efforts to reduce a staggering €18 million (approximately Ksh2.6 billion) deficit recorded during the 2023/24 season.
In a statement released on Wednesday, 14 May, the IRFU confirmed that the move is aimed at ensuring long-term financial sustainability while directing resources toward areas with greater developmental impact, particularly within the 15s format.
“The financial situation we face is challenging, and it’s crucial that we take decisive action to secure the long-term success of Irish Rugby,” David Humphreys, IRFU High Performance Director, said.
“While the decision to end the Men’s Sevens program is a difficult one, it is necessary to ensure that our resources are focused on the areas that will have the greatest impact on the future of the game in Ireland,” he continued.
The decision follows recommendations from two independent reviews, one by World Rugby and another commissioned by the IRFU through Portas Consulting.
The assessments concluded that the Men’s Sevens side does not serve as an effective feeder for Ireland’s 15s game, with provincial academies offering more robust development pathways for male players.
While the men’s program faces the axe, the IRFU has reaffirmed its commitment to the Women’s Sevens side, positioning it as a vital stepping stone for the Women’s 15s team.
“It’s important to note that the Women’s Sevens program remains a critical part of our development strategy for Women’s 15s rugby,” added Humphreys.
“The women’s game is still in its infancy stage, and as the structures evolve, we will continue to monitor the impact that Sevens has as a development opportunity.”
The Men’s Sevens team has played a pivotal role in raising Ireland’s profile on the global stage, especially with their qualifications for the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
“We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the success of the Men’s Sevens program. Their unwavering dedication, hard work, and skill played a vital role in elevating the profile of Sevens rugby in Ireland,” IRFU CEO Kevin Potts said.
“We are very proud of everything that was achieved. The Union remains focused on building a financially sustainable and successful future for rugby in Ireland,” he concluded.
