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Irish provinces prepare for new United Rugby Championship season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 24, 2026, 6:55 AM

Last updated Sep 24, 2026

Irish provinces prepare for new United Rugby Championship season

Summary

The United Rugby Championship kicks off this Friday, marking the beginning of the 2026-27 season. Leinster enters as defending champions, having won against the Bulls in June's final. Each team, including Munster, Ulster, and Connacht, has seen significant off-season changes with new signings and departures. Connacht's Stuart Lancaster aims to build on last season's quarter-final finish, while Leinster grapples with coaching transitions and player losses. Munster also looks to make strides with recent recruitments as the competition intensifies ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•United Rugby Championship starts on September 25.
•Leinster retains championship hopes after last season's success.
•Connacht aims for stronger performance with new signings.
•Stuart Lancaster leads Connacht in his second season.
•Rumors surround Leinster's coaching position as Leo Cullen prepares to leave.

Latest Updates

6:55 AMYahoo Sports — How Irish provinces are shaping up for new season

What they're saying

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With the new United Rugby Championship season starting on Friday evening, BBC Sport NI looks at the prospects for all four Irish teams in 2025-26.
— Yahoo Sports

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