Wales return to Wrexham’s Racecourse Stadium

Wales have confirmed they will host Ireland at the Racecourse Stadium in Wrexham in the European Championship this autumn.

The top two teams in the European Championship, which also includes France and Scotland, this year will quality for the 2021 World Cup.

Wales travel to France (October 26-28) and then Galashiels to face Scotland (November 2), before hosting Ireland on Sunday November 11 (3pm kick-off).

The Racecourse Stadium is a former Super League ground, having been the home of the ill-fated Crusaders franchise, and also hosted games at the 2013 World Cup.

Wales Rugby League chief executive Chris Thair said: “We’re delighted to be hosting our game against Ireland at the Racecourse Stadium. The ground has a long association with rugby league and this will be a tremendous boost to supporting the growth of the grassroots game in North Wales.

“As the top two teams in the European Championship will qualify for the World Cup, we want a big crowd in Wrexham to hopefully cheer on the lads to success.

“We are tremendously grateful to Wrexham Council for their support, Wrexham Football club for their professionalism and we hope this partnership can be a fruitful one that can work long into the future.

“As we are current European champions, I know John Kear, his backroom staff and all the players are all eager to put on a good show, defend their title and qualify for the World Cup at the same time.”