Millions invested in new centre of excellence
Image 1 of 3
Munster CEO Ian Flanagan, Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Lord Mayor of Cork Fergal Dennehy and Munster Branch President Sean Loftus. PHOTO: ©INPHO/Ryan Byr ©INPHO/Ryan ByrneImage 2 of 3
Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Munster Delegate to the IRFU Rosie Foley and Donncha O’Callaghan.Image 3 of 3
Munster Rugby Cork Centre of Excellence official opening at Virgin Media Park.Munster Rugby has officially opened its new €7.3 million Centre of Excellence at Virgin Media Park in Cork, marking a major milestone for sport in the province.
It represents Munster Rugby’s second-largest capital project ever, following the redevelopment of Thomond Park in 2008.
The state-of-the-art centre includes a world-class indoor rugby dome, a 50x40 metre training pitch, and a 2,500 square foot high-performance gym. It also features dressing rooms, physio spaces, and amenities designed to support clubs, schools, and youth development programmes.
The project received €2.7 million in state funding from the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF), with additional support from the IRFU.
The new facility was opened by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD, Minister of State with Responsibility for Sport and Postal Policy, Charlie McConalogue TD, and the Lord Mayor of Cork, Fianna Fáil Councillor Fergal Dennehy.
An Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “The opening of the Munster Rugby Centre of Excellence marks a significant milestone for sport in this province. As one of Munster’s major capital developments, it stands as a clear reflection of the ambition, pride, and long-term vision that define Munster Rugby. This facility will ensure Munster remains a driving force in Irish and international rugby. It’s an exciting day for Munster, and for Irish sport.”
Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan TD, added: “I am delighted that my department was in a position to provide funding for this magnificent project. Munster’s strength has always come from its people — from the club members to the passionate supporters who fill stadiums. This facility is for them as much as it is for the players.”
Munster Rugby CEO Ian Flanagan described the day as a landmark moment for the province: “Today marks a significant milestone as we officially open our world-class Centre of Excellence in Cork. Incredible levels of work have taken place behind the scenes to reach this point.”
The new centre will play a key role in developing grassroots rugby and supporting player pathways for both boys and girls. It will also provide vital facilities for community, school, and club programmes across the province.