Ulster's Kingspan to host Final

 

It is the first time that the Pro12 has staged a 'destination final' providing an opportunity to celebrate the vibrant rugby on show week in week out in the competition.

 

Announcing Belfast as the chosen host city John Feehan, CEO of Pro12 Rugby said: "Belfast is an inspiring host city and the new Kingspan Stadium is a state-of-the-art venue for the Pro12 Final.

 

"Given the development of the competition the time is right for a showcase event and we invited offers from all 12 clubs & their regions to host the Final. 

 

"The tender from 'Team Belfast' was outstanding and was unanimously agreed as the chosen venue. 

 

"Belfast excelled itself as the host city for our Pro12 season launch in 2013 and their plans for the City in the lead up to and around the Final are very exciting.

 

"Our competition is truly unique. 12 Clubs, four Unions, one Trophy – we are delighted to be able to work with our partners to promote the variety of fantastic international destinations that the Pro12 has to offer.

 

"We look forward to working with all our partners in staging a festival of rugby where fans from all 4 of our countries will enjoy a memorable Final and a great weekend in Belfast."

  

Welcoming the decision Shane Logan, CEO of Ulster Rugby added: "We are extremely pleased that our bid to host the Pro12 Final was successful.

 

"Belfast is a vibrant sporting city and through Northern Ireland Executive funding, Kingspan Stadium is now a state-of-the-art rugby stadium, fit to stage a game of this magnitude.

 

"While we hope that our province is in the final, we are fully committed to working with the Pro12 to ensure that regardless of who contests it, that this event is a huge success."