Munster Rugby turned a Champions Cup night in Cork into a powerful remembrance of Anthony Foley, marking a decade since the province lost one of the defining figures in its history. The emotional tribute brought together supporters, former players and Racing 92 in a ceremony that reflected Foley’s enduring place in Irish rugby.
Foley died suddenly in Paris in 2016, shortly before Munster were due to face Racing 92. Ten years on, the same fixture provided the backdrop for a moving evening at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh, where the Munster community came together to honour the former captain and head coach.
Munster rugby pays tribute to Anthony Foley in Cork
Foley’s influence stretched far beyond his decorated playing career. As a powerful number eight, he captained Munster to their first Heineken Cup triumph in 2006 and became a symbol of the province’s resilience, loyalty and competitive spirit.
Munster had announced that the number eight jersey would again be retired for the occasion. Brian Gleeson wore number 24 instead, following the precedent set after Foley’s death when CJ Stander wore an alternative number against Glasgow.
Before the match, supporters gathered at the Marina beside Páirc Uí Chaoimh, where a special mural and photo display celebrated Foley’s journey with Shannon, Munster and Ireland. The display offered a visual reminder of how deeply his career was woven into the fabric of Irish sport.
Simon Zebo reflects on Foley’s legacy
Former Munster and Ireland winger Simon Zebo, working as a pundit for the match, spoke from the mural about Foley’s importance to the province. His appearance carried added meaning, given the emotional scenes involving Zebo after Foley’s death in 2016.
The pre-match ceremony also featured a performance by the choir from Foley’s club, Shannon. Fifteen minutes before kick-off, they sang There Is An Isle, the song performed at Foley’s funeral a decade earlier.
A shared tribute between Munster and Racing 92
The connection between Munster and Racing 92 has remained strong since the events of 2016. The French club supported Munster during an extraordinarily difficult period, and that bond was evident again in Cork.
Both teams followed the decision to retire the number eight jersey for the night. Munster captain Tadhg Beirne and Racing captain Maxime Baudonne exchanged number eight jerseys before kick-off as The Fields of Athenry rang around the stadium.
There was also a moment’s silence for Lions player Hyron Andrews, whose sudden death had shocked the rugby world earlier in the week. The tribute added another sombre layer to an already poignant occasion.
Supporters honour Foley in the eighth minute
In the eighth minute, supporters stood for a moment of applause in Foley’s memory. The timing was especially fitting because Munster had already taken an early lead through a try from Gleeson, who was wearing the number 24 jersey in honour of the retired number.
The words displayed on the mural captured the spirit Foley brought to the game: “If I’m going to be remembered, I’d like to be seen as a stubborn player, someone who never gave in. Once there’s something to chase, I’ll chase it.”
That message remains central to Foley’s legacy. He represented the uncompromising character associated with Munster rugby and helped establish a culture that continues to shape the province’s players and supporters.
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Foley’s influence will continue
Anthony Foley’s name remains inseparable from Munster’s greatest achievements and its strongest traditions. The Cork tribute was not simply an anniversary ceremony; it was a public statement that his contribution continues to influence the province.
Munster and Racing 92 ensured the occasion was treated with the respect it deserved, while supporters created the most powerful tribute of all through their presence and applause. The next chapter for Munster will be measured on the pitch, but Foley’s example will remain part of the story every time the province takes the field.
Article/Image Courtesy: Balls.ie
