On a rain-soaked afternoon at Dublin's iconic Croke Park, Leinster Rugby finally ended their four-year wait for a major trophy by overpowering the Vodacom Bulls 32-7 in the 2025 United Rugby Championship (URC) Grand Final. The Irish province, long criticized for falling short in big moments despite their domestic dominance, delivered a commanding performance that showcased both their physicality and skill, leaving no doubt about their intentions this season.
Leinster came into the final with a point to prove. Having topped the URC table three out of the last four seasons but not making the final since their 2021 victory, they were determined to convert their league success into silverware. Their Champions Cup woes, with no title since 2018, added to the pressure. Yet, bolstered by a squad featuring 12 British and Irish Lions and multiple Springboks, including South African star RG Snyman and New Zealand's Jordie Barrett, Leinster looked ready to reclaim their throne.
The Bulls, South Africa's proud Vodacom side, arrived in Dublin with a hunger for their first URC title after finishing second in the league and contesting two of the last three finals. Despite suffering heartbreak in recent finals, including a 2022 loss to the Stormers and an upset defeat to Glasgow last year, the Bulls were confident. Veteran full-back Willie Le Roux and captain Ruan Nortjé led a squad eager to make history as the first South African team to win the URC away from home.
However, the weather conditions were challenging, with torrential rain battering the stadium before kickoff. The forecast predicted showers at kickoff, which did little to dampen the spirits of the 46,000-strong crowd that braved the elements. Roadworks on Sean Moore Road caused travel chaos for many supporters, but once the teams took to the pitch, the excitement was palpable.
Leinster’s starting scrumhalf Jamison Gibson-Park was ruled out due to injury, with Luke McGrath stepping into the role. McGrath, who had been the starting scrumhalf in Leinster's previous URC victories over the Bulls, proved a more than capable deputy. Early exchanges were intense, with Leinster winning scrum penalties and applying pressure inside the Bulls’ 22.
The first try came in the 6th minute when a well-executed lineout maul culminated with Jack Conan diving over close to the line. Sam Prendergast’s conversion put Leinster up 7-0. The hosts continued to dominate, mixing slick backline moves with powerful forward play. At 13 minutes, McGrath’s perfectly weighted chip kick set up Jordie Barrett, the All Blacks star playing his final match for Leinster, who raced onto the ball and scored under the posts. Prendergast’s conversion extended the lead to 14-0.
Leinster’s relentless pressure paid off again in the 21st minute when Josh van der Flier powered over from a driving maul, giving Leinster a commanding 19-0 lead at halftime. The Bulls, despite their physicality, struggled to penetrate Leinster’s disciplined and ferocious defense, designed by Jacques Nienaber, which proved utterly brutal in contact.
After the break, Prendergast extended the lead to 22-0 with a penalty kick, but the Bulls finally breached Leinster’s defense in the 48th minute. Hooker Akker van der Merwe powered over from a lineout maul, with Johan Goosen adding the conversion to make it 22-7. However, the Bulls’ resurgence was short-lived.
Leinster responded swiftly, with Prendergast adding another penalty in the 66th minute. Then, in the 72nd minute, academy prospect Fintan Gunne scored a slick try off a backline move, with Ross Byrne converting to seal the 32-7 victory. The win marked Leinster’s first major silverware in four years and a triumphant response to their recent Champions Cup disappointments.
Ryan Baird was named Man of the Match for his outstanding work in the back row, exemplifying the collective effort that powered Leinster’s victory. The pack’s dominance, especially in scrums and mauls, was a highlight, with Andrew Porter and Thomas Clarkson leading the charge against the Bulls’ front row.
The match also served as a poignant farewell to two Leinster stalwarts. Cian Healy, retiring after a distinguished career, and Ross Byrne, moving to Gloucester this summer, received heartfelt ovations from the fans and teammates alike. Jordie Barrett’s performance was celebrated as he played his last game for Leinster before returning to New Zealand.
Despite the defeat, Bulls captain Ruan Nortjé remained magnanimous, emphasizing the team’s journey and the bonds forged over the years. The Bulls’ efforts to become the first South African team to win the URC on foreign soil fell short, but their presence in the final for the fourth consecutive season underscored the strength and depth of South African rugby.
Referee Andrea Piardi of Italy officiated his third consecutive URC final, assisted by Mike Adamson and Sam Grove-White from Scotland, with Matteo Liperini as TMO. The officials managed a fiercely contested match with a high level of intensity and physicality, reflective of the stakes involved.
Leinster’s victory not only ended their trophy drought but also sent a strong message to their rivals in Europe and beyond. Their blend of power, precision, and resilience was on full display, and the team’s unity shone through as Jack Conan lifted the trophy alongside injured captain Caelan Doris and Cian Healy.
For rugby fans worldwide, the 2025 URC Grand Final was a showcase of top-tier club rugby, blending tradition, talent, and tenacity. Leinster’s triumph at Croke Park marked a new chapter for a storied club, while the Bulls’ determination and skill ensured the competition remains fiercely competitive and compelling.
