Six Nations champions bring trophy home

Ireland’s Six Nations heroes have arrived home to a rapturous reception at Dublin Airport.

More than 1,500 fans turned out to welcome the squad home after they captured the Championship by beating France in Paris yesterday.

It marked Ireland’s first Six Nations crown since 2009 and a winning end to Brian O'Driscoll's international career.

Fans had arrived hours in advance of the return of Ireland’s rugby heroes, waiting patiently and reliving memories of yesterday’s historic win over France.

And just after 3.30pm, the arrivals hall in Terminal 2 erupted.

Ireland captain Paul O’Connell said it was a moment to savour.

"There were about five or 10 minutes there at the end of the game where I didn’t think we'd be coming back with (the trophy)," he said. "It's fantastic to be back with the trophy. It's a great feeling, and a great reception here from the supporters. It's brilliant."

Brian O'Driscoll poses for a photograph with fans at Dublin Airport today.

Coach Joe Schmidt revealed what he told O'Driscoll when it was all said and done. "I said, ah, thanks mate," he said.

And so say all of us.