In a significant move to support fans with colour vision deficiency (CVD), unbeaten Ireland will be wearing white away jerseys for their clash against Wales at the Principality Stadium.
This decision, driven by new World Rugby regulations, aims to prevent kit clashes that can be problematic for those affected by CVD.
Colour vision deficiency, commonly known as colourblindness, affects approximately one in 12 men and one in 200 women. The traditional red jerseys of Wales and the green jerseys of Ireland create a challenging visual scenario for those with CVD, making it difficult to distinguish between the two teams on the field.
World Rugby's updated regulations now require visiting teams to switch to an alternative kit to avoid such clashes. This change is designed to enhance the viewing experience for all fans, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the game without visual confusion.
Ireland, the back-to-back Guinness Men's Six Nations champions, and Wales have embraced this change. They will wear white jerseys when they face Wales this weekend, in what could very well be a Triple Crown-clinching match for Simon Easterby's men, having already secured victories over England and Scotland. Likewise, in next year's Championship, when Wales take to the field at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, they will wear non-red jerseys.
This isn't the first time Ireland have worn an alternative kit to address colourblindness issues. They previously wore white jerseys against Tonga during the 2023 Rugby World Cup (as pictured in the main image), but the decision to wear white against Wales marks a continued commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in rugby.
Wales v Ireland, 14:15 GMT, Saturday 22nd February, Principality Stadium.
