Irish, All Blacks set for Chicago ‘Rematch’

CHICAGO, IL–The scene of one of Irish Rugby’s most famous victories will be the site of a ‘rematch’. It was officially announced on Tuesday that Ireland and New Zealand will meet each other at Soldier Field on Saturday, November 1st, for what has been dubbed a ‘Rematch’.

In 2016, Ireland netted their first ever win over the All Blacks at Soldier Field by a score of 40-29 before the largest crowd to see rugby union in the United States (62,300). Since then, nine tests, including a World Cup quarterfinal, have been played with the All Blacks winning five and the Irish four.

“We’re excited to be taking the All Blacks back to Chicago, and for it to be against Ireland is especially fitting,” said New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Mark Robinson. “We have massive respect for the Irish, and recent history between our two teams means that this will be a highly anticipated match up. Both teams have passionate fans who will be keen to make an occasion of travelling to the game at such an iconic venue.”

The test will double as buildup for the Rugby World Cups both in Australia in 2027 and for the USA in 2031. The latter provides an opportunity to grow the sport once again after a setback during the pandemic and the USA’s failure to qualify for the 2023 edition in France.

“Rugby is experiencing great momentum in the US, particularly with the upcoming Rugby World Cups in 2031 and 2033, and with the growth of Major League Rugby,” said Robinson. “The US is part of our wider global strategy, and we’re looking forward to this match as part of our ongoing engagement with North America.”

The Irish are certain to bring its support to Soldier Field as this matchup has become one of the most competitive in recent years.

“We are delighted to see international rugby return to Chicago for this historic ‘Rematch’ between Ireland and New Zealand. The 2016 encounter at Soldier Field is one of the greatest moments in Irish Rugby history, and the rivalry that has grown between our two teams since then is a testament to the quality, passion, and the respect that Ireland and New Zealand have for each other,” said Kevin Potts, CEO of IRFU.

General ticket sales begin on Friday at 10am US Central time. Kickoff for the match will be at 3:10pm US Central time.