Farrell extends Ireland contract to 2031Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Farrell was Ireland’s defence coach before taking over as head coach seven years agoByMatt GaultBBC Sport NI senior journalistPublished1 hour agoIreland men’s head coach Andy Farrell has signed a contract extension with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) 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.
But speaking in March, Rugby Football Union boss Bill Sweeney mentioned England’s 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.
