USA Rugby has confirmed an historic double-header – dubbed ‘The Rugby Weekend’ – to take place in Chicago this coming November. The first match will feature the US Eagles against the New Zealand Maori at Toyota Park on Friday, November 4, and the second will follow a day later at Soldier Field as Ireland take on the All Blacks, a match previously revealed last November.
This will be the third major international rugby event in Chicago in as many years, with New Zealand first visiting Chicago in 2014 to face the Eagles, a match that drew a record 61,500 fans. Australia made the trip to the Windy City last September, also to take on the USA, as part of the final World Cup preparations for the two sides.
The Eagles have faced the Maori on three previous occasions, the last being a thrilling 29-19 win for the visitors in front of 18,500 at PPL Park in Philadelphia. A standout performance by no8 Cam Dolan on that day led to a contract with Aviva Premiership club Northampton Saints.
Tickets for the event will be available starting April 1 on the official website.