Ireland has been named as the host venue for the 2017 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
The competition’s group stages will be held at University College Dublin before the tournament moves north to Belfast’s Queen’s University and Ulster’s recently redeveloped Ravenhill ground, where the final will be held.
Ireland came fourth in the 2014 World Cup which was held in France, beating the All Blacks to finish top of their pool before bowing out in the semi-finals after defeat to England.
The tournament, which usually runs on a four year cycle, has been broughtforward a year to 2017 in order to avoid a clash with the Women’s World Cup Sevens series.
On awarding the tournament to Ireland World Rugby Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “With impressive results on and off the field, the IRFU is a leader in driving forward the promotion and development of women’s rugby and the union’s passion, dedication and expertise in women’s rugby was reflected in an impressive and forward think.
“The awarding of Women’s Rugby World Cup 2017 to Ireland is great news for teams and fans as the sport continues to reach out and inspire new participants in our great game. I am sure that Dublin and Belfast will prove to be popular destinations.”
Ireland women’s rugby is riding the crest of a wave following Six Nations success in 2013 and 2015, and IRFU chief executive Philip Browne is hopeful hosting the 2017 World Cup will help the sport flourish further.
He said: “We are delighted with today’s announcement that Irish Rugby will host the 2017 Women’s Rugby World Cup. Interest and participation in women’s rugby continues to grow and building on this momentum we believe Ireland can deliver the best Women’s Rugby World Cup to-date.
“We hope that the growing interest in women’s rugby in Ireland, world leading facilities at UCD, Queen’s University Sport, Kingspan Stadium and our internationally recognised reputation for being one of the world’s most welcoming nations will make an exceptional event for the entire country."
