James Alexander Presents at the International Rugby Experience's Press Day Launch

James Alexander, our CEO, has been in Limerick for the International Rugby Experience's (IRE) press day launch. James shared a platform with the IRE's CEO, Barry Hannon, IRE Board Chair, Paul O’Connell and IRE Board Member, Keith Wood. Also in attendance was Failte Ireland Chairman, Paul Carty, whose support of the project and praise for the team was loud and clear.

The room was packed with TV and newspaper press reps who were eager to find out more about the new experience. The reception for the project was warm and upbeat, with lots of interviewing, photography and filming going on.

The exterior building work has recently been completed, and the project is now in fit-out stage.

Speaking at an event, Chairperson Paul O’Connell said he and the team were delighted to be close to opening the doors to the wider public.

Former Ireland, Lions and Munster captain O’Connell said 'we’re delighted to be at this stage of what has been a very exciting project to date. We’re really looking forward to welcoming the public through our doors shortly, and for them to enjoy the array of national and international names that have kindly agreed to be a part of our Experience. Approximately 100,000 visitors are expected in year one so it is really a case of hitting the ground running.'

Meanwhile, James was giving the press an overview what they can expect from the experience within. 'The International Rugby Experience is the home of great rugby stories, gathered from all corners of the globe and featuring tales from across the generations. But more than simply a feast of statistics and rugby facts and figures, it is a fully-immersive, hands-on, multi-sensory experience designed to engage and inspire. Targeted at families seeking a fun day out as well as ardent rugby fans seeking to ‘deep dive’ into the detail, the International Rugby Experience is one of a kind and a ‘must see’ in Ireland’s rugby heartland.'

The Experience is set to open in early 2023 and will feature past and present rugby legends from Ireland and beyond, including the likes of Tadgh Furlong, Jonny Wilkinson, Thierry Dusautoir, Joy Neville, Keith Earls, Nigel Owens and David Pocock.