Ireland rugby: Andy Farrell signs new contract with Ireland to 2031 - BBC Sport

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Farrell extends Ireland contract to 2031

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Farrell was Ireland's defence coach before taking over as head coach seven years ago

By Matt Gault

BBC Sport NI senior journalist

Published 4 hours ago

Ireland men's head coach Andy Farrell has signed a contract extension with the Irish Rugby Football Union until 2031.

The 51-year-old replaced Joe Schmidt after the 2019 World Cup - having spent three years in the New Zealander's backroom - and has led Ireland to two Six Nations titles, including Grand Slam in 2023, and a historic Test series win over the All Blacks in New Zealand.

Farrell temporarily stepped away from the Ireland job at the start of 2025 to take over as British and Irish Lions head coach and the tourists to a Test series win over Australia before returning to Dublin.

Earlier this year, the 2023 World Rugby coach of the year was linked with a return to Saracens, where he previously played and coached, which prompted an angry response from the Prem club.

He was also considered a contender to coach England, but speaking in March, Rugby Football Union boss Bill Sweeney said the governing body was "not in a dialogue" with Farrell.

After autumn defeats by New Zealand and world champions South Africa, a dismal opening Six Nations loss to France in Paris increased the pressure on Farrell, but victories over Italy, England, Wales and Scotland secured the Triple Crown and pushed Les Bleus all the way in pursuit of the championship.

His current contract with the IRFU was due to expire after the 2027 Rugby World Cup, but the former England international will now lead Ireland to the following tournament which will be held in the USA.

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption,

Farrell and his backroom team masterminded a 42-21 win over England at Allianz Stadium earlier this year

Farrell said he was "incredibly proud to continue this journey" with Ireland.

"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," he said.

"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."

IRFU chief executive Kevin Potts said the organisation is "delighted" to tie Farrell down to a fresh deal.

"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," said Potts.

"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, creating a culture that truly unites players and supporters and one that Irish Fans at home and across the globe feel incredibly proud to stand behind."

Farrell's immediate priority is finalising his squad for the inaugural Nations Championship, with Ireland facing Australia and Japan in Australia on 4 and 11 July before taking on the All Blacks in New Zealand on 18 July.

'England miss out on contender'

Chris Jones

Rugby union Correspondent

While this is huge news for Irish rugby, it has significant ramifications elsewhere.

Farrell would have been the RFU's number one contender to succeed Steve Borthwick as England boss - whenever that might be - while he was also a target for Saracens.

He might still coach England again one day - he is only 51 - but for now he has decided to stay in a place where he is settled and revered, and will have two more cracks at the World Cup with Ireland.

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'World class' Farrell extends Ireland contract to 2031

Ireland rugby: Andy Farrell signs new contract with Ireland to 2031 - BBC Sport

Farrell extends Ireland contract to 2031

'England miss out on contender'

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