The Crusaders shock loss to the Lions has prompted some to question whether the 'Curse of Richie McCaw' is a real thing.

The 'Curse of Richie McCaw' was first reported at the Rio Olympics, after teams and athletes the rugby legend was on hand to watch at Rio failed to live up to pre-Olympic hopes.

The Crusaders have charged through the Super Rugby competition unbeaten, with 14 straight wins. But their winning streak was broken tonight as McCaw watched on from the sidelines for the first time in 2 years.

"I've not been back to the stadium since my last game there in 2015,' McCaw explained to the Daily Mail.

"I haven't been to watch any Crusaders games. Going and sitting in the stands, you usually get a bit of hassle, and I didn't really need that for a bit. It can be pretty hard to watch the games.

"But there's no way I'm missing the Lions. I'm going along with my wife, Gemma, and it will be nice to be back."

THE SPOOKY HISTORY OF 'RICHIE MCCAW'S CURSE

At the Rio Olympics Richie watched Valerie Adams win a silver medal in the shot put competition. She had been widely backed to win a third successive gold medal.

He watched the All Black Sevens' shock 14-12 rugby loss to Japan. Sonny Bill Williams suffered a tournament-ending injury in the pool game.

McCaw was also present when the Black Sticks women's hockey team lost 2-1 to Germany earlier in their competition.

Source: NZ Herald.