Why does the Irish rugby team have 2 anthems?

Answer 1

The Ireland team is made up from players from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland (ROI). The first anthem sung is "Amhran na bhFiann" (The Soldiers' Song), the ROI national anthem. The second anthem is "Ireland's Call", which is supposed to represent all of the players together.

Answer 2

The team itself includes the entire of Ireland (including Ulster / Northern Ireland). This creates an issue when it comes to an anthem. If the southern anthem was sung then players and fans from the north may take offence. Likewise the same applies vice-versa. Therefore when the team plays away matches a TEAM anthem is sung (Ireland's call). When playing matches at home both the southern anthem and the team anthem are sung.

Answer 3

Ireland has two world cup teams as there is Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland.