IRFU Charitable Trust 2027 Rugby Ball in association with Vodafone Foundation
Rugby’s Biggest Night of Giving Returns
On Friday, 12th March 2027, the night before Ireland face France in the Guinness Men’s Six Nations at Aviva Stadium, the Irish rugby family will once again come together for one of the most special evenings in the rugby calendar – the IRFU Charitable Trust Rugby Ball in association with Vodafone Foundation.
Set in the iconic Round Room at the Mansion House, the Rugby Ball is much more than a black-tie event. It is a powerful reminder that rugby is more than a game. It is a community that stands together, celebrates together and, most importantly, supports those who have given so much to the sport.
Every ticket purchased and every euro raised helps provide lifelong support to the 36 seriously injured rugby players across the four provinces and their families.
A Night That Makes a Real Difference
The 2026 Rugby Ball once again showcased the extraordinary generosity of the Irish rugby community. Players, coaches, supporters, sponsors and friends gathered to celebrate the game while making a genuine difference to the lives of those who need it most.
We were joined by two very special guests – seriously injured players Brendan Glynn and Tommie Kyne, accompanied by their wives Deirdre and Teresa. Interviewed by the wonderful Miriam O’Callaghan, Brendan spoke about the impact rugby continues to have on his family and the challenges they faced after Brittany Ferries stopped allowing hoists on board its vessels, preventing the family from travelling to France for their annual holiday. That conversation sparked wider public attention, leading to Brendan’s appearance on RTÉ Radio 1’s Liveline. Click here to listen to the interview. Following the publicity, Brittany Ferries changed its policy and now permits one hoist on every sailing, allowing Brendan and his family to once again enjoy holidays together. It was a wonderful example of how awareness, compassion and the strength of the rugby community can create meaningful change.
Rugby Personalities and an Incredible Evening
Guests also enjoyed an entertaining and insightful Q&A with Bernard Jackman and Eimear Corri-Fallon, expertly hosted by long-time Trust supporter Nigel Osborne. Fresh from Ireland’s famous Six Nations victory at Twickenham, Bernard and Eimear reflected on the Championship, discussed the future of Irish rugby and shared their thoughts on the Guinness Women’s Six Nations, giving guests a unique insight into the game from two respected voices.
None of This Happens Without Our Sponsors
We are incredibly grateful to our title sponsors, Vodafone and Vodafone Foundation, whose continued commitment helps make this event possible year after year. Our thanks also go to Guinness, Bank of Ireland, Leinster Rugby, Business Plus, DMG Media, Get Broadcasting, Killester Travel, The K Club, Circle K, Black Emerald Irish Whiskey, Masterlink, Stellaer 212 and DNG, with special thanks to Keith Lowe for once again bringing energy and enthusiasm to the Live Auction.
Your support changes lives.
What to Expect in 2027
Guests can look forward to another unforgettable evening, beginning with a 7.00pm Guinness drinks reception, followed by a superb three-course silver service dinner in the spectacular surroundings of the Round Room.
The ever-popular Heads & Tails, kindly sponsored by Butlers in 2026 returns, along with our famous raffle, featuring fantastic prizes for every table.
The evening will also include:
- Special guest Q&A (to be announced)
- Outstanding Live and Silent Auction Lots including tickets to Ireland v France up for grabs
- Fantastic live entertainment to round off the night – following the success of Spring Break in 2026, expect another packed dance floor as the celebrations continue long into the evening
Be Part of Something Special
The Rugby Ball is one of the few occasions each year where the entire rugby community comes together with one shared purpose: supporting those who have sacrificed the most for our game.
Whether you are a long-standing supporter of the Trust or attending for the first time, your presence helps ensure our seriously injured players and their families receive the lifelong support they deserve.
This is what rugby is all about.
Book Your Table
Tables of ten are available for €3,000, with all proceeds going directly towards supporting the Trust’s 36 seriously injured players and their families.
To reserve your table, please contact:
Linda Black
087 745 8438
linda.black@irfu.ie
Thank You
To our sponsors, donors, committee members, volunteers, FRIENDS and every guest who has supported the Rugby Ball over the years—thank you.
Your generosity continues to demonstrate the very best of rugby. Together, we ensure that those who have given so much to the game are never forgotten.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Round Room at the Mansion House on Friday, 12th March 2027 for another unforgettable evening of friendship, generosity and the unique spirit of the rugby community.
