Why does the Ireland rugby team have two national anthems? It’s a question a lot of rugby fans are asking right now.
RUCK’s Autumn Nations Series coverage is proudly powered by the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, dedicated to creating a world free of MND. Join the the fight against MND here.
It’s time for the Irish rugby team to face off against the mighty All Blacks at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Before that first whistle blows, you’ll notice a unique ritual: the Irish team sing two national anthems.
But what’s the story behind this double anthem tradition? Let’s break it down.
Two Anthems, One Team: The Unusual Ritual Explained
The Irish rugby squad proudly sing both Ireland’s Call and Amhrán na bhFiann (Soldier’s Song) before home games. But why two anthems?
The answer lies in the nation’s complex history, with political and cultural divisions that have shaped this tradition.
Amhrán na bhFiann: The Official Anthem with a Complex Past
Amhrán na bhFiann, the national anthem of Ireland, was written by Peader Kearney and Patrick Heeney around 1909 or 1910. It’s a stirring call to arms, celebrating Irish independence—a sentiment not embraced by everyone.
For many Unionists in Northern Ireland, the lyrics are politically charged and divisive, emphasizing Irish independence from Great Britain. Back in the Irish War of Independence (1919–1921), the anthem was even known as the “Sinn Féin anthem,” highlighting the tension surrounding it.
The unease deepened in the 1980s. One unforgettable moment was when a 1987 IRA roadside bomb injured several Irish players traveling from Belfast to Dublin, ending Nigel Carr’s rugby career. These events cast a long shadow over the anthem’s unifying potential.
Ireland’s Call: A Unifying Anthem for All Provinces
In response to this fraught history, a solution emerged for the 1995 Rugby World Cup in South Africa. Enter Phil Coulter, who composed Ireland’s Call. This anthem aimed to unite players from all four provinces—Leinster, Munster, Ulster, and Connacht—without political baggage.
Today, both songs are performed at matches in the Republic. Amhrán na bhFiann is sung first, though players from Northern Ireland aren’t required to join in. Then comes Ireland’s Call, a symbol of unity embraced by the entire team.
So, when Ireland face New Zealand at the Aviva, these anthems will echo through the stands, reflecting a complex but united rugby heritage.
At other games, ‘Ireland’s Call’ is the only song sung.
Bookies Reckon This is the Lions Squad for the 2025 Aussie Tour – And Some Picks Will Surprise You
The British & Irish Lions tour of Australia in 2025 is generating excitement, with bookies now tipping a likely squad.
While a few seasoned players seem almost guaranteed, there are some unexpected names rumored to earn their stripes.
2025 BRITISH & IRISH LIONS SQUAD (36)
BACK-THREE (6)
The back-three boasts a dynamic mix, with Duhan van der Merwe and James Lowe bringing powerful running and finishing ability. Tommy Freeman and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso are tipped to add youthful flair and speed, while Hugo Keenan and Darcy Graham round out the squad with their solid defensive skills.
- Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland) – 1/16
- James Lowe (Ireland) – 1/8
- Hugo Keenan (Ireland) – 1/5
- Tommy Freeman (England) – 4/9
- Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (England) – 8/11
- Darcy Graham (Scotland) – 2/1
CENTRE (4)
In the centre, Bundee Aki is a strong favorite for his physicality, while Ollie Lawrence has made a name for himself with his impressive form. Sione Tuipulotu and Robbie Henshaw provide additional versatility and experience.
- Bundee Aki (Ireland) – 1/5
- Ollie Lawrence (England) – 1/4
- Sione Tuipulotu (Scotland) – 2/7
- Robbie Henshaw (Ireland) – 8/11
FLY-HALVES (3)
The fly-half selection highlights Finn Russell’s creativity and flair, with Marcus Smith and George Ford both showcasing tactical nous and playmaking ability.
- Finn Russell (Scotland) – 1/10
- Marcus Smith (England) – 8/15
- George Ford (England) – 8/11
SCRUM-HALVES (3)
A competitive scrum-half group sees Jamison Gibson-Park favored for his quick service and decision-making, while Alex Mitchell and Ben White are both strong contenders.
- Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland) – 8/11
- Alex Mitchell (England) – 11/10
- Ben White (Scotland) – 11/10
PROP (3)
The front row is anchored by stalwarts like Tadhg Furlong and Andrew Porter, while Ellis Genge and Joe Marler add depth and experience.
- Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 1/8
- Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/7
- Zander Fagerson (Scotland) – 4/11
- Ellis Genge (England) – 4/6
- Joe Marler (England) – 5/6
- Pierre Schoeman (Scotland) – 5/4
HOOKER (3)
With Dan Sheehan leading the way, the hookers are expected to be agile and mobile, crucial for the fast-paced style of play the Lions aim to adopt.
- Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 1/10
- Jamie George (England) – 8/15
- Elliot Dee (Wales) – 6/5
LOCK (5)
In the locks, Maro Itoje remains a cornerstone, complemented by Tadhg Beirne’s athleticism and versatility.
- Maro Itoje (England) – 1/33
- Tadhg Beirne (Ireland) – 1/10
- Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 4/6
- Ollie Chessum (England) – 8/11
- George Martin (England) – 11/10
BACK-ROW (6)
Finally, the back row combines experience and dynamism, with Josh van der Flier and Courtney Lawes bringing a wealth of international experience and physicality.
- Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/5
- Ben Earl (England) – 1/5
- Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3
- Courtney Lawes (England) – 8/15
- Tommy Reffell (Wales) – 4/6
- Rory Darge (Scotland) – 6/4
Join the RUCK’s WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
EDITORS PICKS:
- Huge blow for Scotland as Darcy Graham will miss Springboks clash
- RFU issues statements in defence of former boss Eddie Jones after allegations surface
- England team to play Australia: Borthwick names XV early again
- Ireland legend Brian O’Driscoll went viral for incident at an airport
- England forward has been handed a big ban following altercation with a fan
