Why Does Ireland Have Two National Anthems in the Six Nations?

Saturday, 14 February 2026 at 14:00

byRugby Rucker

is sung at away fixtures.

Rugby fans across the country will have their drinks chilled and snacks ready as the Six Nations Championship delivers another thrilling weekend of action.

But if you’re watching Ireland play, you might notice something unique before kick-off — the team sings two national anthems.

So, why does Ireland have two anthems in the Six Nations? The answer lies in the island’s complex political history and the unique structure of Irish rugby.

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Ireland’s Two Anthems Explained

1. Ireland’s Official National Anthem:

Amhrán na bhFiann

Amhrán na bhFiann — also known in English as The Soldier’s Song — is the official national anthem of the Republic of Ireland.

Composed around 1909–1910
Written by Peadar Kearney
Music by Patrick Heeney
Adopted as Ireland’s national anthem in 1926

During the Irish War of Independence (1919–1921), the song became closely associated with Irish republicanism and was sometimes labelled the “Sinn Féin anthem.” Because of this history, it has long carried political and nationalist connotations — particularly sensitive for those from Northern Ireland.

2. Ireland’s Call – The Rugby Anthem

Ireland's Call was commissioned in 1995 ahead of the Rugby World Cup in South Africa.

Phil Coulter wrote the anthem as a neutral alternative that could represent all players on the island of Ireland, regardless of political or cultural background.

The need for a unifying song became even more apparent during the late 1980s, a tense period of The Troubles. In 1987, an IRA roadside bomb injured members of the Irish rugby squad travelling from Belfast to Dublin — with player Nigel Carr forced to retire due to his injuries.

To ensure inclusivity moving forward, the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) adopted Ireland’s Call for international matches.

Why Are Both Anthems Sung in the Six Nations?

The Ireland rugby team represents the entire island of Ireland, including:

The Republic of Ireland
Northern Ireland (which is part of the United Kingdom)

In Six Nations matches played in Dublin:

Amhrán na bhFiann is performed as the host nation’s anthem.
Ireland’s Call is also sung to represent unity across the island.

For away games, Ireland’s Call is typically the only Irish anthem performed.

FAQ: Why Does Ireland Have Two National Anthems?

Is Ireland’s Call the national anthem of Ireland?
No. Amhrán na bhFiann is the official national anthem of the Republic of Ireland. Ireland’s Call is a rugby-specific anthem.

Do they always sing both?
Both are sung at home matches in Dublin. Usually only Ireland’s Call

Why was Ireland’s Call created?
It was written in 1995 to provide a politically neutral anthem that represents players from both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

When Ireland line up in the Six Nations, the two anthems are more than just music — they reflect history, unity and the unique identity of Irish rugby.