The news that all Ireland fans have been waiting for has finally arrived. Head coach Andy Farrell has signed a four year deal with the Irish Rugby Football Union that will keep him on until 2027.
This means that Farrell will be at the head of the men in green as they approach the next World Cup in Australia – with his contract ending at the conclusion of the tournament.
Ireland sadly found themselves once again dumped out at the quarter finals of the recent World Cup – a situation that left the country feeling a mixture of shock and disappointment, with a spoon full of self-deprecating humour.
Farrell contract extension has indicated that things aren’t quite done yet, however, with the Englishman indicating that the next four year cycle could well be better than the last.
Commenting on the contract extension, Andy Farrell said: “Coaching Ireland has been a hugely enjoyable experience and I am proud to extend my association with the IRFU. It is a pleasure to work with such a talented and committed group of players and as we enter a new cycle, it will be exciting to see more players come through the system.
“There is a talented group of established internationals who are determined to succeed at international level for Ireland and I am excited to see how the recent Ireland U20 squads will also emerge and challenge for international honours in the near future. It all makes for an exciting next chapter and it is one which my family and I are delighted to continue.”
IRFU Performance Director David Nucifora commented: “Over the course of the last four years Andy has helped drive the highest standards for the men’s national team and it is testament to the positive environment which he and his backroom team have fostered that Ireland has enjoyed such a sustained period of success in recent times. Andy is an ambitious and talented coach who continues to make an indelible mark on Irish rugby, and it is a significant coup to retain his services. I have no doubt that he will look to build in the years to come.”
IRFU Chief Executive Kevin Potts added: “The IRFU is determined to attract and retain top class coaching talent and we are delighted to announce Andy’s contract extension, which is a hugely positive boost for the game in Ireland. Andy is a world-class coach and an inspirational leader of great talent and integrity who has already made a significant contribution to Irish rugby through his leadership of our men’s national team. We are extremely pleased that he has agreed to remain in Ireland.”
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