Connacht Rugby has stated that their URC clash with Munster next spring will be played at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park in Castlebar.
For the first time, a rugby match will be held at the historic venue. It will also provide a promising financial boost for Mayo GAA. The interprovincial clash, approved by Central Council, is set for March 29, just eight days before the Connacht SFC quarterfinal between Mayo and Sligo.
Connacht Rugby CEO Willie Ruane said in a statement: “This promises to be not only a great occasion for Connacht Rugby supporters but also for the many people all across the province who love sport, regardless of the code.”
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For the first time ever, we’re heading to the home of Mayo GAA
https://t.co/AjATw9cla5 #OneConnacht pic.twitter.com/4MPxKe6FBQ
— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) December 23, 2024
“We are very proud to represent the province of Connacht from the four corners of the five counties, and this fixture provides us with a great opportunity to demonstrate that by bringing a fixture of this significance to the heart of the province."
Club captain Cian Prendergast added he and players were delighted with the news
“All the players were absolutely delighted when told the news. The opportunity to play in front of a massive home crowd in the heart of the province is something to really look forward to. Today’s announcement is a massive boost for what will be a really important game for us, at a crunch time in the season," he added.
"Our supporters are amongst the best there are, and we know the passion that the people of Mayo and Connacht more widely show every time they support their teams, whatever the code or colour of the jersey. We will be doing everything we can to feed off and match that passion in the performance we deliver on the day.”
The likes of Supervalu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Croke Park, and Kingspan Breffni have also hosted rugby matches recently.
