The announcement was made by Jean-Pierre Lux, Chairman of the ERC, at the launch of the Heineken Cup 2002/2003 tournament, held at Welford Road, Leicester.
He said: “We are delighted to announce that Dublin will host the 2003 Heineken Cup final.
“In confirming the venue before the Pool stages of the tournament get underway on October 11 it means everyone knows where European Club rugby’s 2002/2003 showpiece occasion will be staged.”
He added: “From today all Heineken Cup roads lead to the Irish capital.”
Attending the launch was Neath coach Lyn Jones whose side open their European account at home to Leicester Tigers.
And Jones cannot wait for the tournament to kick-off against the reigning champions.
He said: “The Heineken Cup is a fantastic competition and always brings the best out of our team and supporters.
“We’ve started this season well and got some good results.”
But, as he admits his side have still got plenty of work to do ahead of their match against the Tigers.
“Heineken Cup is another level and for us to do well we will have to work hard on our game and eliminate any errors.
“We are delighted to have drawn Leicester and it’s going to be a massive game between two sides that play with a lot of a passion.”
