Accumulated profits at the main firm owned by rugby legend Brian O’Driscoll last year almost topped the €6m mark.

The popularity of Irish rugby on and off the pitch looks set to continue its meteoric rise after the glorious success of Twickenham and a historic Grand Slam.

Ryle Nugent announced yesterday he will step down from his position as group head of RTÉ Sport for “new challenges”.

It may have been Conor McGregor’s year, in terms of earnings banked, but in the nation’s affections, Notorious has shipped losses in 2017.