Ireland achieved a rare victory over the All Blacks on Saturday, marking the third time in over a century. One of the many supporters celebrating this achievement was the US President, Joe Biden. The triumph came as Ireland defeated New Zealand 29-20 at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium.
Before the highly anticipated match, Biden sent a letter to the team, recalling their previous victories against the All Blacks in Chicago back in 2016, and two years later. In his letter, he cited an Irish blessing, wishing the team luck in their endeavors: “Wherever you go and whatever you do, may the luck of the Irish be there with you.”
Sharing a piece of family wisdom, Biden mentioned his grandfather’s advice to “Keep the faith,” to which his grandmother would add, “No, spread it.” Encouraging the team to spread their faith, he assured them of his support by stating, “I’ll be cheering for you.”
Following the team’s remarkable win, Biden personally called the team to convey his congratulations. A photo shared on Irish Rugby’s social media account captured the team celebrating in their hotel, holding up a phone. The accompanying caption recognized the significance of the moment as it stated, “Incredible to have @POTUS [President of the United States] address the team after today’s win over the All Blacks!”
While President Biden claims to have played rugby during his youth, the specifics of his rugby background remain unclear. The White House has not provided details regarding where and when he may have played, although it is possible that his involvement in the sport predates his graduation from law school at New York University in 1968.
