Ireland Wheelchair Rugby Team Climbs to World Rank 3

Ireland's wheelchair rugby team is proving that dedication and teamwork can move mountains, climbing to third in the world rankings just months before the 2026 World Cup.

The squad will face France in two international matches on July 11 and 12 in Perpignan, giving fans free entry to watch these world-class athletes compete. It's a massive opportunity for Ireland to test themselves against one of the sport's giants.

The transformation has been remarkable. When these teams last met in November 2024, France dominated 62-20. Their only previous encounter in 2015 saw France win 100-8. But Ireland isn't the same team anymore.

Under head coach Phil Roberts, Ireland captured three consecutive Celtic Cup titles from 2024 to 2026. That winning streak propelled them past multiple nations in the world rankings, landing them just behind France.

"We lost the game but took a lot away tactically and technically," Roberts said about their last France match. That loss became fuel for growth rather than discouragement.

France head coach Cyril Torres has noticed the change. "They have been improving significantly since we last played them a couple of years ago," he said, expecting Ireland to provide strong opposition this time around.

The matches serve as crucial preparation for both teams before the IRL Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup kicks off in October in Wollongong, Australia. With just four months until the tournament, Ireland wanted the toughest possible warmup.

Why This Inspires

This story shows what's possible when athletes refuse to be defined by past defeats. Ireland's wheelchair rugby players took a crushing loss and used it as a masterclass, studying every detail to improve their game. Their three-championship run proves they absorbed those lessons well.

The friendship between coaches Roberts and Torres also highlights something special about sports at this level. Despite being rivals on the field, they're working together to elevate wheelchair rugby and give both squads the best preparation possible.

These July matches in Perpignan represent more than World Cup preparation. They're a celebration of how far Ireland has come and a preview of competitive wheelchair rugby at its finest.