An Interview With Josh van der Flier

The upcoming 2021 Autumn internationals sees the return of stadiums full of rugby fans for the first time in nearly two years with Ireland facing Japan, New Zealand and Argentina over the coming weeks. One player everyone in Spirit Motor Group is excited to see take to the pitch is Spirit Burton ambassador Josh van der Flier. The marauding flanker has become a mainstay for both Leinster & Ireland in recent seasons where he is regularly seen topping the tackle and breakdown stats. Known for his tough tackling and high work rate around the pitch, we are sure he is at home behind the wheel of the all new Land Rover Defender.

We sat down with Josh before the start of the upcoming series to speak about his dream car, favourite match and advice he'd give to young rugby players.

•SB: What is your favourite car to drive?

JVDF: I’d say my favourite would be the discovery or defender. Both incredibly comfortable and enjoyable to drive. Also driven a convertible on the French coast which was pretty cool but not sure it would work as well in Ireland. So I’ll stick with the defender!

•SB:You're driving the all new Land Rover Defender right now. What is your favourite feature?

JVDF: Hard to pick one. I think the overall simplicity, like the original defender, coupled with the modern technology and large touchscreen is lovely.

•SB: What is your dream car to drive?

JVDF: I have never driven a super car or high performance car so that’s definitely on the list!

•SB: What is your favourite match?

JVDF: The pro14 final in 2019 was probably up there with my favourite games. My first professional trophy I won playing in a final, I had missed the previous ones with injury so that was a very special day.

•SB: Who is your favourite opponent?

JVDF: I always enjoy playing against Justin Tipuric and Ardie Savea, two world class no.7s and always a challenge.

•SB: Who is your least favourite opponent?

JVDF: I always enjoy beating Glasgow, they play a bit nasty, So maybe them!

•SB: What is your standout memory of playing for Leinster/ Ireland?

JVDF: Both of my first games, Ireland v England and Leinster vs Zèbre. Incredibly special days for me and my family.

•SB: What advice would you give to young rugby players?

JVDF: Try and create really good habits, work on being really technically good at all areas. It is always said but I genuinely believe the most Important thing is to enjoy it, enjoy playing with your friends and improvement and fun will come with that! That’s something I have learnt and try to do all the time now.

Everyone in Spirit Motor Group, especially Spirit Burton, wish Josh all the best for the upcoming season ahead.