Andy Farrell has signed a contract extension to stay as Eire head coach till the tip of the 2031 Rugby World Cup.
Farrell will lead Eire into the following two Rugby World Cup cycles having overseen a interval of sustained success since he took over the position in 2019.
Throughout his time in cost, Farrell has led Eire to 2 Six Nations titles, together with a Grand Slam in 2023, after changing Joe Schmidt who had taken them to No 1 on the planet rankings for the primary time.
“I am incredibly proud to continue this journey,” Farrell mentioned. “It is a privilege to work with such a talented group of players and staff, and to represent the supporters whose passion and unwavering support drive this team forward and inspire us every time we take the field.
“What excites me most is the rising energy and funding in pathways and the standard of expertise coming via.
“There is a real confidence in the system that has been built across the provinces and age-grade programmes, and I believe with sustained effort that the best is yet to come.”
The 2027 Rugby World Cup had been set to mark the tip of Farrell’s present contract with the IRFU, nevertheless they’ve put confidence within the former England worldwide to guide the staff into the 2031 event, which will probably be hosted by the USA.
“We are delighted to secure Andy through to 2031,” mentioned IRFU chief government Kevin Potts.
“He is a truly world-class coach and an exceptional leader who has helped shape Ireland as one of the most exciting and consistent teams in the world.
“His influence reaches far past what we see on the pitch – he has instilled a deep sense of delight, connection, inspiration and perception throughout Irish rugby, making a tradition that actually unites gamers and supporters and one which Irish followers at dwelling and throughout the globe really feel extremely proud to face behind.
“Ensuring Andy’s long-term future with us is a hugely positive step for Irish rugby as we continue to grow the game and strive for sustained success on the international stage.”
Farrell additionally led the British and Irish Lions to a sequence win over Australia in 2025 earlier than returning to Eire to proceed their constant spell of success.
They misplaced closely to France within the opening recreation of this 12 months’s Six Nations however recovered to win their remaining 4 matches and acquire a fourth Triple Crown in 5 years.
Eire’s subsequent outing will probably be towards Australia within the new Nations Championship on July 4, earlier than occurring to face Japan and New Zealand later that month.