Ireland rugby team misses world‑ranking podium in 2025‑26 season

Ireland's national rugby side, ranked third behind South Africa and New Zealand and ahead of France, failed to retain a place on the world‑ranking podium during the 2025‑26 season. The team recorded losses to South Africa and New Zealand in November but secured victories over Japan and Australia.

At the Six Nations, Ireland captured the Triple Crown for the fourth time in five years, suffering only a defeat to France. In July, the side earned a modest win over the Wallabies and a larger victory against Japan before a Nations Championship defeat to the All Blacks. Coach Andy Farrell highlighted concerns about the squad’s age and depth, noting that while players such as Stuart McCloskey and Thomas Clarkson performed strongly, replacements have not yet matched the quality of earlier stars.

Overall, Ireland demonstrated competitiveness against top teams but fell short of the consistency needed to stay among the elite, signalling a transitional phase for the "green warriors" moving forward.