Josh van der Flier and James Ryan have signed contract extensions with Leinster and the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) ahead of next season.
The outstanding pair recently notched up 50 Test caps for their country, helping Ireland claim a 2023 Six Nations Grand Slam.
Van der Flier signs extension to 2026
Van der Flier, the 2022 World Rugby Player of the Year, has signed an IRFU extension to his Leinster contract and will remain at the province until at least the end of the 2025/26 season.
He earned his 50th Test cap for Ireland in the final round of the Six Nations against England and debuted against the same side during the 2016 Six Nations.
The 29-year-old featured in Ireland’s first-ever win over New Zealand at Soldier Field in 2016 and won his first Grand Slam in 2018, playing the first fixture before an injury ended his campaign.
He has been a regular starter for Ireland, featuring in the starting line-up 19 times in their last 21 Tests. The back-row also started all three Tests against the All Blacks in New Zealand last July, helping the side claim an historic series victory.
Since his debut in 2014 for Leinster, he has racked up 125 appearances and 25 tries for the side, winning the Champions Cup in 2018 and four PRO14/URC titles between 2018 and 2021.
Work ethic and professionalism
“Josh’s journey to the top of the international game has not been straightforward, but his dedication, work ethic and professionalism have driven him to deliver a consistency of performance that has elevated him to World Player of the Year and a key contributor to the national team’s success in recent seasons,” said IRFU performance director David Nucifora in a statement confirming Van der Flier’s extension.
Meanwhile, Van der Flier said it is ‘a privilege’ to be involved with Leinster and Ireland.
“It is a privilege to be a part of two incredible rugby environments,” he said.
“I am very grateful to the coaches at both Leinster and Ireland who have helped me to develop my game over the years. I appreciate that I get to go to work each day with some of my best friends, doing something that I love, and I am thankful for the incredible support of my wife and family, who have been with me for every step of this journey so far.”
Ryan signs a two-year extension
Meanwhile, second-row Ryan has also extended his contract with Leinster and the IRFU.
He has signed a two-year extension until the end of the 2024/25 season.
Ryan made his Test debut at the age of 20 against the USA in 2017 and earned his 50th cap against France during the Six Nations.
He has captained Ireland seven times and has earned 53 caps to date.
The 26-year-old also played all three Test matches against the All Blacks last July and has been a crucial member of the 2018 and 2023 Grand Slam-winning teams.
In his 71 games for Leinster, he has won four PRO14/URC titles and a Champions Cup title.
World-class lock
“James has established himself as a world-class lock and is developing as a strong leader within the national squad and with his province,” Nucifora said of Ryan in the statement confirming his extension.
“He has achieved a lot already in his career, but at just 26 years of age, he continues to develop his game and will be a force for Ireland and Leinster for years to come.”
“The ambition of Leinster and Ireland to improve each day and win trophies is one of the reasons why it is so enjoyable to be part of these squads,” Ryan said.
“There is also a great camaraderie and competitive edge in both squads. I have also been fortunate to captain my country over the past couple of seasons which has been an incredibly proud moment for me and my family.”