Bundee Aki, Dan Sheehan, Jamison Gibson-Park and Josh van der Flier sign IRFU contract extensions

HAPPY BUNDEE: The IRFU have announced contract extensions for Bundee Aki, Dan Sheehan, Jamison Gibson-Park and Josh van der Flier.

The IRFU have officially announced that Bundee Aki, Dan Sheehan, Jamison Gibson-Park and Josh van der Flier have extended their contracts as Ireland head coach Andy Farrell builds his squad towards Men's Rugby World Cup in 2027.

Connacht's Aki has signed a new one-year contract extension, Leinster duo van der Flier and Gibson-Park have put pen to paper on two-year deals up until the end of the 2027/28 season and Sheehan has committed his future to Ireland and Leinster for a further three years until the end of the 2028/29 campaign.

The new deals for the four players comes off the back of Ireland's Triple Crown success at Aviva Stadium last weekend as Farrell's side finished second in the Guinness Men's Six Nations and the commitment of the quartet - all of whom were part of last year's British and Irish Lions Tour to Australia - is a boost for Ireland heading into the inaugural Nations Championship this summer, and also the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia next year.

"You cannot underestimate the outstanding contributions of these four players to Irish Rugby over many years," said Andy Farrell.

"That they see their futures here is a significant boost, which I have no doubt will delight Ireland supporters around the world. They are all key leaders who put their bodies on the line time and time again in reaching the highest standards on the field.

"All four players are a pleasure to work with and have played key roles throughout the recent Guinness Men’s Six Nations. In congratulating Bundee, Jamison, Dan and Josh on their new contracts, we look forward to seeing them progress in Ireland in the months and years to come."

IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys added: "I am delighted to announce that Bundee, Jamison, Dan and Josh have agreed to extend their contracts in Ireland. They are outstanding professionals who continue to deliver at the highest levels for their provinces and their country.

"Today’s announcement is a positive one for Irish supporters coming off the back of a successful Guinness Men’s Six Nations and building into an exciting conclusion to the URC and European campaigns. It also enables us to plan with confidence towards Rugby World Cup 2027 and beyond.

"That four key performers see their playing futures in Ireland is a strong endorsement of their ambition allied to the competitive environments, high calibre of coaching, medical support and improving facilities across the provinces. These re-signings also reaffirm the IRFU’s commitment to attracting and retaining top-class talent."