Irish Rugby announce contract extensions for four key players
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Signed.
The IRFU has this morning announced contract extensions for Bundee Aki, Dan Sheehan, Jamison Gibson-Park and Josh van der Flier, securing the futures of four key players as Ireland Head Coach Andy Farrell builds his squad towards Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027.
Connacht’s Aki has signed a new one-year contract extension, Leinster duo van der Flier and Gibson-Park have put pen to paper on two-year deals up until the end of the 2027/28 season and Sheehan has committed his future to Ireland and Leinster for a further three years until the end of the 2028/29 campaign.
Today’s announcement comes off the back of Ireland’s Triple Crown success at Aviva Stadium last weekend as Farrell’s side finished second in the Guinness Men’s Six Nations.
The commitment of four experienced players – all of whom were part of last year’s British and Irish Lions Tour to Australia – is a major boost for Ireland heading into the inaugural Nations Championship this summer, and looking further beyond to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia next year.
Ireland Head Coach Andy Farrell added:
“You cannot underestimate the outstanding contributions of these four players to Irish Rugby over many years. That they see their futures here is a significant boost, which I have no doubt will delight Ireland supporters around the world.
“They are all key leaders who put their bodies on the line time and time again in reaching the highest standards on the field.
“All four players are a pleasure to work with and have played key roles throughout the recent Guinness Men’s Six Nations.
“In congratulating Bundee, Jamison, Dan and Josh on their new contracts, we look forward to seeing them progress in Ireland in the months and years to come.”
