Andy Farrell makes ‘best is yet to come’ pledge as Ireland future resolved ahead of 2027 World Cup
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has signed a new contract.
Andy Farrell has signed a new deal with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) that will see him remain as Ireland head coach until the end of Rugby World Cup 2031.
In a boost for the squad, the ex-England international has locked in for another World Cup cycle, with the 2027 tournament in Australia of course his immediate focus.
Farrell, who has overseen a spell of sustained success and evolution since taking on the role, was linked with a return home but has instead decided on this extension.
He expressed his pride in securing his tenure and his belief in the future of Irish Rugby as they continue to build for the upcoming inaugural Nations Championship.
Best is yet to come
“I am incredibly proud to continue this journey with Irish Rugby,” Farrell said. “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.
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“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 Performance Director David Humphreys underlined the importance of continuity in the role, adding: “Andy’s contract extension is a key investment in the long-term success of the Ireland Men’s National Team through until Men’s Rugby World Cup 2031.
“Since taking the Head Coach position, Andy’s leadership has established a clear performance vision for the team, driven consistently high standards and built an environment where players and staff can thrive at the highest level of the international game.
“This commitment to Irish Rugby gives us real confidence as we look ahead and allows us to keep developing our playing group, strengthen our high-performance systems, and ensure alignment from the pathway right through to the senior team. Above all, it provides a stable platform to keep Irish Rugby competing with the very best in the world over the coming years.”
Exceptional leader
IRFU Chief Executive Kevin Potts also welcomed the announcement and hailed the 2025 British & Irish Lions head coach as an “exceptional leader” in the Irish set-up.
“We are delighted to secure Andy through to 2031. 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,” he said.
“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.
“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.”
