The International Olympic Committee revealed today that rugby sevens would be added to the list of sports in Rio de Janeiro.

IRFU chief executive Philip Browne said: “The exposure for rugby in adding the sport to the Olympic schedule is bound to have further knock-on effects in terms of participation at all levels of the game.”

Director of rugby Eddie Wigglesworth added: “The IRFU will be reviewing its structures over the coming months to see how best to further develop our exposure in the sevens game.

“The timing of the entry to the Olympic Games allows us to fully establish the best possible player pathways to incorporate Rugby Sevens.

“The game could have a very positive effect on overall participation, both in amateur and the elite levels of the game, and we will be working on how best it can serve Irish rugby.”