Is the Rugby World Cup on Television?

Yes! The Rugby World Cup 2023 will be broadcast on television in Ireland. RTÉ and Virgin Media will provide free-to-air coverage of all 48 matches of the tournament. This means Irish rugby fans can watch every try, tackle, and scrum on RTÉ television, RTÉ Player, Virgin TV, and Virgin Player.

Ireland’s matches will be shared between the two broadcasters, ensuring maximum exposure for the national team. Even better, the Rugby World Cup Final will be broadcast simultaneously live on both RTÉ and Virgin, so no one has to miss the climactic match. RTÉ has also secured live radio broadcast rights for all of Ireland’s games, offering comprehensive coverage across multiple platforms.

This agreement ensures that the Rugby World Cup 2023 will be accessible to a wide audience in Ireland. With the Irish team currently ranked number one in the world and fresh off a Six Nations Grand Slam victory, excitement for the tournament is already incredibly high. The accessibility of the broadcasts will undoubtedly contribute to the tournament’s overall viewership and solidify its place as a major sporting event.

This deal marks a significant milestone in the broadcast arrangements for the Rugby World Cup 2023, positioning it to be the most watched tournament in history. The collaboration between RTÉ and Virgin Media underscores the commitment to bringing major sporting events to the Irish public.

The partnership between RTÉ and Virgin Media reflects a broader trend in sports broadcasting, focusing on free-to-air access for major tournaments. This allows fans across the country to engage with the excitement of the Rugby World Cup without subscription barriers. This inclusive approach aims to maximize viewership and foster a sense of national unity around the Irish team’s participation in the tournament.

The decision to broadcast all matches free-to-air highlights the significance of the Rugby World Cup for Irish viewers. With the national team performing at such a high level, the tournament holds even greater importance for fans eager to support their country on the global stage. The free-to-air broadcasts ensure that everyone in Ireland can be part of the experience.

World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin emphasized the timing of this agreement, coinciding with Ireland’s exceptional performance in the rugby world. He expressed delight in the partnership with RTÉ and Virgin Media, recognizing their dedication to showcasing the sport and its ability to captivate new audiences.