Farrell to stay with Ireland until 2031

■By SAM JACKSON

“What excites me most is the increasing strength and investment in pathways and the quality of talent coming through.

“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.”

Farrell said it was an easy decision to accept the new contract. “To be asked, it means a lot because it means a little bit

ANDY Farrell has signed a contract extension to remain as Ireland head coach until the end of the 2031 World Cup.

Farrell will lead Ireland into the next two World Cup cycles as they attempt to get past the quarter-final stage for the first time.

Farrell joined Ireland in 2019 and has won two Six Nations titles, including a Grand Slam in 2023, after replacing Joe Schmidt under whose watch the team climbed to No.1 in the world rankings for the first time.

“I am incredibly proud to continue this journey,” Farrell said. “It is a privof ilege 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.

New deal: Andy Farrell

what you do is appreciated. But to get to this point, there’s so many people that have helped us get to this point,” he added. “If you look at what we’ve got coming ahead, a summer tour to the southern hemisphere [to face Australia, Japan and New Zealand in July). There’s a lot of firsts that are going to happen, the Six Nations and then into the World Cup. What an 18 months that’s going to be.”

Farrell’s contract was due to expire after the 2027 World Cup but the IRFU have moved to tie him in until the following showpiece event in 2031, which will be hosted by the USA.

“We are delighted to secure Andy through to 2031,” said IRFU chief executive Kevin Potts. “He is a world-class coach and an exceptional leader who has helped shape Ireland as one of the most exciting teams in the world.

“His impact reaches far beyond what we see on the pitch – he has instilled a deep sense of pride, connection, inspiration and belief across Irish rugby.”