Belfast has been chosen to host the 2007 IRB U-19 World Championship, the Ulster branch of the IRFU has confirmed.

The 60 match tournament will feature 24 of the world's best teams over a three week period between April 4th and 21st next year.

Speaking on the announcement today Ulster chief executive Michael Reid said: "The IRB U-19 World Championship a key tournament in the international rugby calendar and is arguably the biggest sporting event ever to be held in Ulster."

"Our thanks go to the IRB for selecting Ireland as the host union and to the IRFU for putting their trust in Ulster. We are determined to make the IRB U-19 World Championship 2007 the biggest and best ever."

Dr Syd Millar, chairman of the IRB, welcomed the decision and expects and "outstanding" tournament.

"The Province has a long and distinguished rugby heritage and I am sure that they will produce an outstanding tournament," he said.

"The people of Ulster are passionate about rugby and I am sure that they will embrace a tournament that will generate a great deal of excitement and interest in the province and wider rugby community."

Financial backers for the tournament include UK Sport, The Northern Ireland Events Company, Belfast City Council and Sports Council for Northern Ireland.