Ireland quartet make decision on future as IRFU look to 'plan with confidence' for Rugby World Cup
Ireland quartet Dan Sheehan, Bundee Aki, Jamison Gibson-Park and Josh van der Flier have all committed their futures to the Irish Rugby Football Union, penning new central contracts.
Their decisions give Ireland a major boost ahead of the 2027 World Cup and beyond, with Aki and Gibson-Park previously linked with moves away from the Emerald Isle.
All four men have been ever-present in the Ireland squad in recent years, helping Andy Farrell’s side win the 2023 and 2024 Six Nations titles in the process.
Connacht man Aki has put pen to paper on a new one-year deal with the union and his province, while Leinster duo Gibson-Park and van der Flier have signed on for another two years. Hooker Sheehan will also remain with the Dublin-based province and the Union for a further three seasons.
As part of their deals, they will also remain eligible for the Test squad, looking towards the upcoming Nations Championship and the 2027 World Cup.
Commenting on the re-signings, IRFU performance director David Humphreys said: “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.
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“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.
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“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.”
Also commenting, Ireland head coach Andy Farrell added: “You cannot underestimate the outstanding contributions of these four players to Irish rugby over many years. That they see their futures here is a significant boost, which I have no doubt will delight Ireland supporters around the world.
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“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.”
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