'It's great news all round' - Nucifora delighted with Farrell's contract extension

The Ireland boss will plan for life after Mike Catt's departure however. 

IRFU Performance Director David Nucifora on Thursday. Picture: INPHO/Laszlo Geczo

Andy Farrell’s new contract extension to stay as Ireland men’s team head coach has been described as “great news for Irish rugby” by IRFU performance director David Nucifora but Mike Catt’s exit at the end of the season means the Ireland boss is looking for a new attack coach.

The IRFU announced the new deal for the former rugby league icon on Thursday, keeping the man who succeeded Joe Schmidt following the 2019 World Cup in place through to the 2027 World Cup in Australia. Farrell, 48, was already contracted to 2025 but the IRFU have now secured the much sought-after talents of a Grand Slam-winning Test boss. Catt, however, whom Farrell added to his coaching staff when he was promoted from defence coach ahead of the 2020 Six Nations, is set to leave his position at the end of Ireland’s tour to world champions South Africa next July.