Andy Farrell signs new IRFU contract until 2027 World Cup, Mike Catt to leave at end of season

Andy Farrell has signed a new contract with the IRFU that will see him remain in charge of Ireland until the end of the 2027 World Cup.

The 48-year-old took over from Joe Schmidt as head coach following the 2019 World Cup.

Farrell led Ireland to the 2023 Six Nations Grand Slam and oversaw a 17-game winning run up to the World Cup quarter-final against New Zealand in October.

The former England dual code international has guided Ireland to number one in the world rankings in a spell which included a Triple Crown, an inaugural series victory in New Zealand in 2022 and the Grand Slam title earlier this year.

He said: "Coaching Ireland has been a hugely enjoyable experience and I am proud to extend my association with the IRFU.

"It is a pleasure to work with such a talented and committed group of players and as we enter a new cycle, it will be exciting to see more players come through the system.

"There is a talented group of established internationals who are determined to succeed at international level for Ireland and I am excited to see how the recent Ireland U20 squads will also emerge and challenge for international honours in the near future.

"It all makes for an exciting next chapter and it is one which my family and I are delighted to continue."

IRFU Performance Director David Nucifora added: "Over the course of the last four years Andy has helped drive the highest standards for the men's national team and it is testament to the positive environment which he and his backroom team have fostered that Ireland has enjoyed such a sustained period of success in recent times.

"Andy is an ambitious and talented coach who continues to make an indelible mark on Irish rugby, and it is a significant coup to retain his services. I have no