Leo Cullen Signs Two-Year Extension As Leinster Rugby Head Coach
Leo Cullen Signs Two-Year Extension As Leinster Rugby Head Coach
Leo Cullen, Leinster’s most successful coach, extends his contract until 2027, aiming to build on five major trophies and a legacy of player development.
Leinster Rugby head coach Leo Cullen has signed a new two-year contract, extending his tenure until the end of the 2026-2027 season.
The announcement was confirmed Tuesday by the IRFU and Leinster Rugby.
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Cullen, who has led Leinster since 2015, is the club’s most decorated head coach, having overseen five major trophy wins, including a Champions Cup triumph in 2018 and four United Rugby Championship titles.
Under his stewardship, nearly 100 players have made their debuts for Leinster, most of whom have risen through the club's development pathways.
Speaking about the decision, Leinster Rugby CEO Shane Nolan expressed his satisfaction at securing Cullen’s future with the club:
“Moving Leo away from one-year rolling contracts was a priority for me, and I’m thrilled we’ve finalized this ahead of a critical phase of the season,” Nolan said. “Leo has an unparalleled understanding of Leinster Rugby’s ecosystem, culture, and DNA, which makes him integral to our future ambitions.”
Despite falling short in the past three seasons, Nolan emphasized the broader picture of Cullen’s impact.
Leinster remains a consistent presence in finals and continues to nurture top-tier talent. With record season ticket sales and a strong start to the current campaign, Leinster sits atop the BKT United Rugby Championship standings.
“While the past few years have been challenging, no one feels the sting of those near misses more than Leo,” Nolan added. “But with a fresh season, new players, new coaches, and the hunger for success stronger than ever, Leo is the ideal person to lead us forward.”
As a player, Cullen was a stalwart for Leinster and Ireland, earning 221 caps for his province and captaining the team to three Heineken Champions Cup victories.
Since transitioning to head coach, his leadership has been recognized multiple times, including being named URC Coach of the Year twice, in 2018 and 2022.
Cullen expressed his gratitude and excitement in a statement, thanking the club, staff, and his family for their unwavering support.
“I am honored to continue as head coach of Leinster Rugby,” Cullen said. “We have an incredible group of players and staff, and I’m excited about what the future holds as we work hard to make our supporters proud.”
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