“While the decision to end the men’s sevens programme is a difficult one, it is necessary in order to ensure that our resources are focused on the areas that will have the greatest impact on the future of the game in Ireland.

“We are committed to making sure that this transition is handled with the utmost respect for all those who have contributed to the success of the sevens programme.”

The men’s sevens side played their last tournament in Los Angles earlier this month, finishing 11th and suffering relegation in the World SVNS Series.

They reached two Olympic Games in Tokyo in 2021 and in Paris last summer, finishing 10th in Japan and sixth in France.

IRFU CEO Kevin Potts said that he was “very proud” of everything the sevens side has achieved.

“We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the success of the men’s sevens programme, especially in achieving qualification for the Tokyo and Paris Olympic games.

“Their unwavering dedication, hard work and skill played a vital role in elevating the profile of sevens rugby in Ireland.”