Andy Farrell signs new contract through to 2025

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has committed his future to the team, signing a new two-year contract extension which will take him up until 2025.

Farrell has recently led Ireland to their first Test series victory over New Zealand on their soil and his side currently sit atop the World Rugby rankings.

The stock of the Ireland head coach has risen considerably in recent times and with his original contract expiring at the end of the 2023 World Cup, this move by the IRFU secures will head off any interest in their man from elsewhere.

English RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney previously stated an English candidate was his preference to eventually succeed Eddie Jones and he has spoken highly of Farrell in recent times.

However Farrell had no hesitation in committing to the IRFU.

“I am happy to extend my contract with Irish Rugby for a further two years,” he said

“As a group we have made it clear that we are building towards the 2023 Rugby World Cup, and we have taken some decent strides in that regard in recent months.

“Ahead of the tour to New Zealand myself and David (Nucifora) looked at the opportunities and challenges facing the national squad after the tournament in France. I am excited about continuing to work with the group and with the next generation of Irish international players.”

IRFU Performance Director, Nucifora, added: “Andy is one of the outstanding coaches in world rugby and his work in leading the transition within the national team since the 2019 Rugby World Cup has been exceptional.

“Ireland are currently the number one ranked team in the world, an incredibly tough five-match tour of New Zealand was a success on several levels and a Triple Crown was secured in the 2022 Six Nations Championship.

“A coach of Andy’s calibre is always going to be in high demand, and we are delighted that he has agreed to extend his contract with the IRFU.

“This new deal, agreed prior to the Tour of New Zealand, allows us to plan beyond the 2023 Rugby World Cup with the certainty that one of the top coaching talents in the game is spearheading the national programme.”

The IRFU have also confirmed that Ballynahinch man John Robinson has been elected as president of the association.

Robinson has represented Ulster Rugby on the IRFU committee for several years.

“It is a huge privilege to be elected president of the IRFU,” he said. “I have been involved in rugby from a volunteer capacity for a great many years and I am honoured to follow the many presidents of the IRFU that I have admired over the years.

“Volunteering in sport is extremely rewarding and it is only possible with the support of an understanding family, and I want to thank Lynne and Jan for their support over the years.

“I look forward to the year ahead and thank all the delegates that put their faith in me to represent them as the 133rd President of the Irish Rugby Football Union. I am privileged to do so.”