Rugby World Cup 2023 bid: A hard lesson in realpolitik of commerce

Two weeks ago Munster and Irish rugby had a harsh commercial reality underlined. 

Despite their best efforts, they could not offer a package to an Irish international, British and Irish Lion, and player who so often provides the spark that inspires Munster, Simon Zebo, to continue playing in the country of his birth.

Irish and Munster rugby were outbid in the race to secure the 27-year-old’s signature and he is expected to join a French club at the end of the season. So be it.