Updated / Wednesday, 4 Nov 2026 16:41
Ireland rugby fans have been told to "exercise extreme caution" after a rise in reports of fake ticket sales for the Nations Championship and Six Nations.
The IRFU said on Wednesday there had been a "significant increase" in cases of fraudulent sales ahead of the upcoming Tests against Argentina, Fiji and South Africa as well as the Six Nations showdowns with England and France.
The only authorised sources for tickets are the Irish Rugby Account Manager platform through Ticketmaster, and Ticketmaster itself.
Supporters who have made purchases tickets on unauthorised websites and ads - particularly those promoted through social media platforms - have later become aware they may have been scammed when receiving confirmation emails that lack key ticket information, e.g. the entry route and seating allocation.
"We are seeing an increase in reports from supporters who have unknowingly purchased fraudulent digital tickets through websites and social media advertisements that appear legitimate at first glance," said IRFU director of communications Aoife Clarke.
"Unfortunately, these sites can be highly convincing and often appear prominently through online advertising and social media channels. We are urging supporters to purchase tickets only through Ticketmaster or Ticketmaster's Irish Rugby Account Manager.
"If a website claims to have Irish rugby tickets available but is not one of these authorised sources, supporters should avoid making a purchase."
The IRFU said that tickets obtained through unauthorised sellers will be invalid and fans will not gain entry to Aviva Stadium.
Anyone who fears they may have bought fraudulent tickets are encouraged to contact their bank or card provider immediately to explore options for reversing or disputing the transaction as well as reporting the incident to An Garda Síochána.
The IRFU said it has been working with An Garda Síochána and other relevant authorities to have unauthorised sellers’ websites and advertisements removed.
"We understand how disappointing and frustrating this situation can be for supporters who are excited about attending an Ireland match," added Clarke.
"Anyone who believes they may have fallen victim to ticket fraud should contact their bank as soon as possible and seek advice on recovering any funds paid.
"If supporters have reason to believe their tickets are not genuine, we would strongly encourage them not to travel to Aviva Stadium on match day in the expectation of gaining entry. Taking action early is the best way to avoid further inconvenience and disappointment."
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Follow a live blog of Ireland v Argentina on Friday (8.10pm) on rte.ie/sport and the RTÉ News app, and listen to live commentary on RTÉ Radio 1's Sport Extra
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Source: RTÉ News · RTÉ Sport
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