Nothing epitomises D4 lifestyle than the Leinster schools senior cup. A competition dominated by Dublin private schools, D4 has been the home to the competition that introduced the likes of Brian O'Driscoll and Jonathan Sexton into the public eye.
Across the old Lansdowne Road, Donnybrook and the RDS, the final of the cup has been able to remain in the famous postcode throughout its over 100 year history. However news has come out that will shock many Range Rover drivers.
Rúaidhrí O'Connor in the Irish Independent has reported that the Leinster schools senior cup will take place away from D4 for the first time in its history as the final will be played in Tallaght Stadium in March 2025.
The showcase of Leinster schools rugby has been played in the RDS every year since 2008 but won't host the 2025 final as the Anglesea Stand is still under redevelopment.
Donnybrook Stadium, which hosted finals after redevelopment began on Lansdowne Road was deemed too small for the final after 2007 with the venue only having a 6,000 capacity. Therefore Tallaght Stadium, home of Shamrock Rovers, looks to be the next best option as it has a capacity of over 10,000.
The majority of the tournament will still take place in Donnybrook, with the draw for the first round taking place on December 9th as Blackrock College will look to defend their title.
Tallaght Stadium has hosted rugby in the past, with Leinster using it for two friendlies in 2014 and 2016 against Ulster and Gloucester and an Ireland 'A' side faced the Argentina Jaguares back in 2009.
It's a move which has shocked many in the D4 community, none more so than Ross O'Carroll Kelly who took to Twitter to express his shock.
Sorry, WHAT the focking fock? https://t.co/eb6H9JmO0P
— Ross O'Carroll-Kelly (@RossOCK) November 23, 2024
It will be interesting to see how the pupils and alumni of these prestigious schools get on away from their comfort zone of Ballsbridge.
