Irish rugby enters 2025 with big challenges and opportunities, as Farrell steps aside and key tournaments approach

The dawn of 2025 is set to be a defining year for Irish rugby, a year brimming with promise but also uncertainty. While 2024 was filled with memorable highs and a few stinging lows, the new year promises to be an even more thrilling ride for both the men’s and women’s teams.

For the men’s side, 2024 was a bittersweet chapter. The Six Nations title was secured, a well-deserved accolade for their hard work and skill, but it wasn’t enough to seal the Grand Slam. The summer tour exposed further vulnerabilities. After a tough defeat to South Africa, Ireland’s spirits were lifted by a sensational Ciaran Frawley-inspired win in Durban, a performance that offered a glimpse of their potential on the world stage. However, the Autumn Nations Series left more questions than answers. Three wins from four was a respectable showing, but the loss to the All Blacks intensified the regret stemming from their 2023 World Cup exit.

For the women’s team, however, the year was one of significant progress. Under the guidance of head coach Scott Bemand, Ireland secured World Cup qualification and managed a historic victory over world champions New Zealand. This marked a crucial milestone in the development of the team, one that has sparked hopes of further success as 2025 unfolds.

Now, as the year ahead looms large, Irish rugby is on the precipice of a new chapter, albeit one that is tinged with uncertainty. With Andy Farrell stepping aside temporarily due to health reasons, the team will rely on Simon Easterby to take interim charge. Easterby, well-respected for his tactical insight and leadership, will have the tough task of keeping the squad’s momentum going, especially with a Lions tour on the horizon.

Looking ahead, Tadhg Beirne is hopeful that his performances will earn him a spot in the Lions squad, an achievement that would add another prestigious layer to his already impressive career. While Beirne’s future in the green jersey seems secure, the Lions remain an exciting prospect for many players, promising an exciting chapter for Irish rugby.

The women’s team also has major aspirations for 2025, with the Women’s World Cup on the horizon. Erin King, one of the standout players of the past year, is expected to play a central role in their bid for glory. Her leadership and experience will be pivotal as Ireland look to make a deep run in the competition.

Irish rugby fans are in for a rollercoaster of a year. With Farrell’s absence, the pressure on Easterby will be immense. However, the mix of youthful enthusiasm and experienced talent within the squad suggests that there is much to look forward to, both on the men’s and women’s sides. The key will be to maintain focus, develop the right tactics, and build on the momentum from 2024 to ensure that 2025 becomes a year to remember in Irish rugby history.