Terry Kennedy slams IRFU over scrapping of Sevens Programme

Ireland Sevens star Terry Kennedy has condemned the Irish Rugby Football Union’s decision to shut down the national men’s sevens programme, calling the move “absolutely shocking” and criticising both the IRFU and Leinster Rugby for their roles in what he views as a deeply flawed decision.

In a scathing post shared on social media, Kennedy expressed dismay at the sudden disbandment of the team, which he described as “nothing short of a disgrace.”

“Absolutely shocking. Years of hard work from so many people to build a programme from nothing. Nothing short of a disgrace,” Kennedy wrote.

Kennedy, who was crowned World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year in 2022, took specific aim at the IRFU’s financial priorities, contrasting the investment in foreign players with the elimination of a homegrown developmental pathway.

“Hard to take when you look around the provinces and see players being signed from around the world on big money, in some cases for six-month contracts. The argument that it’s too expensive doesn’t stack up when you see that happening.”

The IRFU announced the termination of the men’s sevens programme as part of a broader strategy focused on “long-term sustainability.” But the decision has triggered sharp criticism from former and current players, with Kennedy among the most vocal.

Former Ireland Sevens captain Billy Dardis also weighed in, calling the news “unbelievably deflating.” Many players, Dardis added, had “dedicated years of their lives” to the squad and the dream of Olympic representation.

“To be told that it’s all over because of a decision completely out of your control is a very tough pill to swallow.”

Kennedy highlighted the programme’s critical role in developing talent for Irish rugby, with players like Hugo Keenan and Jimmy O’Brien graduating from the sevens circuit to international prominence in the 15s game.

The disbandment comes just months after Ireland qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics and follows years of steady progress by the squad on the global stage.

The decision has not only blindsided many of the athletes involved but has also sparked a broader debate about Irish rugby’s developmental priorities, particularly in a year when provincial teams like Leinster are reportedly spending heavily on short-term overseas signings.