'Inspiring' Belfast bid wins GUINNESS PRO12 Final

Feehan, the CEO of PRO12 Rugby, announced the news on Monday which will see Ulster's Kingspan Stadium welcome the two finalists - the first time the competition has staged a 'destination final'.

Previously, the highest-placed finisher at the end of the regular PRO12 season had the right to host the final at a stadium of their choice which met the criteria.

And Feehan is looking forward to a new era which he believes will add a new dimension to the competition.

"Our competition is truly unique. 12 Clubs, 4 Unions, 1 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," said Feehan.

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

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

"Belfast is an inspiring host city and the new Kingspan Stadium is a state-of-the-art venue for the PRO12 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."

The GUINNESS PRO12 Final will be a festival of rugby throughout the whole city and will be supported by title sponsor Guinness.

It will be broadcast live on TV by Sky Sports and other broadcast partners to be confirmed once finalists are known.

Tickets will go on public sale on Tuesday February 3 through Ticketmaster and Ulster Rugby.

And David Jordan, Tournament Director at PRO12 Rugby, spoke on the recent Strategic Review of the competition and the rationale for a destination final.

He said: "We have been working with all our clubs to build the PRO12 rugby brand and the announcement today is an important step in showcasing our fantastic competition.

"Our last five sell-out Finals were truly memorable rugby spectacles and, building on this success, we look forward to welcoming fans to Belfast for what will be a fantastic rugby weekend."

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