mens
investec-champions-cup
Munster they insisted that it was not feasible to change this Saturday Investec Champions Cup bind with Race 92 from SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh to Thomond Park, when it was revealed in July that it would fall on the same weekend that club legend Anthony Foley passed away 10 years ago.
Heineken Cup-winning captain Foley’s life and contribution to Munster Rugby will be remembered through a series of tributes on what is sure to be an emotional evening in Cork. But some supporters feel it would be more appropriate to stage the match at their spiritual home of Limerick, where the stable back row enjoyed some of their best moments.
Munster acknowledged the disappointment felt by those supporters, but stressed it was out of their hands.
“Anthony’s connection with Limerick, Shannon RFC and Thomond Park is woven into the history of our province, and we fully appreciate why many people feel that Thomond Park would be the most appropriate setting for this occasion,” they said.
“The decision to hold a Champions Cup game at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh was approved in March, before the Champions Cup draw had taken place, before the opponents were known and before match dates and kick-off times had been confirmed. At that stage, neither Racing 92 nor the anniversary weekend were foreseeable factors in the planning process.
“The decision reflected our commitment to bringing major Munster rugby events to fans across the province and follows the success of hosting the European fixture in Cork last season. Season tickets were subsequently sold on that basis.”
“Munster have also requested a different order of European fixtures for the 2026/27 season, but our preferred arrangement has not been met.”
“Tomorrow’s game is expected to attract around 25,000 fans and is likely to be one of the best attended games in the first round of the Champions Cup, reflecting the continued strength of support for Munster Rugby across the province.
“When the draw and fixtures were confirmed in July, it was clear that the game would take place on the weekend of the tenth anniversary of Anthony’s death.
“However, by that stage season tickets had been sold and the planning, ticketing and operational arrangements for both European matches had already advanced significantly. A change in seat allocation was not considered feasible and our focus was on ensuring that Anthony was commemorated appropriately and respectfully.
“This was not a decision to move the Anthony Foley anniversary match from Thomond Park. The venue decision was made before the opposition and the match date was known.
“Once those details were confirmed, our focus became ensuring that Anthony would be commemorated appropriately and respectfully. Those plans were developed with the knowledge and support of the Foley family and in collaboration with Racing 92, Shannon RFC, Ballina-Killaloe RFC and supporters associated with both clubs.
Ten years ago, Munster were due to play Racing 92 in Paris in the Heinken Cup when their then head coach and club legend died suddenly in his sleep, aged 42, after a heart condition caused fluid to build up in his lungs.
Facing the same opponents on the 10th anniversary of his death only made this weekend’s matchup all the more poignant.
“We recognize that, with hindsight and the emotions that are understandably attached to this anniversary, many people will have a different opinion about where this match should have been played. We respect those views,” added Munster.
“What unites them all is their admiration, affection and appreciation for Anthony Foley and his outstanding contribution to Munster Rugby.
“Our focus now is to provide a fitting tribute this weekend to one of the greatest figures in our history and to remember him with the dignity, respect and love he deserves.
