Jean-Pierre Lux, Chairman of ERC, the tournament organisers, today (Monday) made the venue announcement at the launch of the Heineken Cup 2002 / 2003 tournament, held at Welford Road, Leicester.

‘We are delighted to announce that Dublin will host the 2003 Heineken Cup final,’ he said.

‘In confirming the venue before the Pool stages of the tournament get underway on 11 October it means everyone knows where European club rugby’s 2002 / 2003 showpiece occasion will be staged – from today all Heineken Cup roads lead to the Irish capital.’

Dublin has hosted a previous final, when David Humphreys’ Ulster were crowned the champions of Europe after beating Colomiers 21-6 on 30 January, 1999, in front of a capacity 49,500 Lansdowne Road crowd.

‘In 1999 it was a magnificent, vibrant and special occasion and everyone is looking forward to a repeat of that on 24 May, 2003,’ added M Lux.

Philip Browne, the Chief Executive of the Irish Rugby Football Union, declared: ‘It is fantastic news that Dublin will host the 2003 Heineken Cup final, which is sure to be a magnificent rugby weekend and memorable occasion. Such a high profile event is an excellent opportunity both to promote the game in Ireland and the country itself.’

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