In recent weeks, the IRFU has received a growing number of enquiries from supporters who have purchased tickets through unauthorised websites and advertisements, particularly those promoted through social media platforms.
The IRFU wishes to remind supporters that the only authorised sources for Irish Rugby tickets are the Irish Rugby Account Manager platform through Ticketmaster (https://am.ticketmaster.com/irfu/) and Ticketmaster itself (https://www.ticketmaster.ie/ireland-tickets/artist/1056338). No other ticket resale or ticketing websites are authorised to sell Irish Rugby international tickets.
Many supporters only become aware they may have been scammed when receiving ticket confirmation emails that lack key ticket information such as entry route and seating allocation that enables them to identify where the ticket is for.
Aoife Clarke, IRFU Director of Communications, said:
"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."
"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 also reminds supporters that tickets obtained through unauthorised sellers will be invalid and they will not gain entry to Aviva Stadium on match day. Supporters who believe they may have purchased 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 to An Garda Síochána. The IRFU has also been continuously working with An Garda Síochána and other relevant authorities to have these unauthorised sellers’ websites and advertisements removed from the internet and associated media.
Clarke adds:
"We understand how disappointing and frustrating this situation can be for supporters who are excited about attending an Ireland match. 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."
Supporter Advice
The IRFU recommendations:
- Supporters who bought through an official IRFU or Ticketmaster channel should be reassured that their tickets are valid and they do not need to take any action (https://am.ticketmaster.com/irfu/) and (https://www.ticketmaster.ie/ireland-tickets/artist/1056338)
- For anyone who bought through an unauthorised site or seller, the advice is direct: DO NOT travel to Aviva Stadium expecting entry.
- Be wary of tickets advertised through social media posts, sponsored advertisements or unofficial websites.
- If they believe they have been the victims of fraud they should contact their bank or card provider immediately and An Garda Síochána
For more information on IRFU ticketing policies visit https://www.irishrugby.ie/tickets