The deal finalises the major rugby broadcast market line-up for the tournament, which is on track to be the most widely viewed Rugby World Cup ever.

All 48 matches will be broadcasted across Virgin Media and RTÉ’s Irish television networks, including Virgin TV, Virgin Player, RTÉ television, and RTÉ Player.

Additionally, RTÉ has also secured live radio broadcast rights for Ireland’s matches.

Commenting on the deal, World Rugby CEO, Alan Gilpin, said: “We are delighted that RTÉ and Virgin Media will be telling every moment of the France 2023 story on their free-to-air platforms.”

“They share our passion for Rugby and its ability to attract new audiences and we look forward to working together to make this tournament a tournament to remember,” he said.

RTÉ director general, Dee Forbes, celebrated another historic partnership with Virgin Media Television, adding: “We are delighted to make this latest agreement with World Rugby ensuring that the entire Rugby World Cup tournament is brought to Irish audiences free to air across RTÉ and Virgin Media Television.”

“It’s the jewel in the crown of international rugby and given the Irish team’s phenomenal performance, the excitement is building towards September. It’s a fantastic result that ensures Irish audiences won’t miss any of the action,” she said.

Virgin Media Television managing director Paul Farrell, added: “Once again, we are putting Irish sports fans first by freeing up sport, giving them free-to-air access to the highly-anticipated Rugby World Cup in France.”

This announcement comes after World Rugby’s long-standing CFO stepped down after nearly 30 years.