Jacob Stockdale Secures New Two-Year Deal with Ulster

Ireland wing Jacob Stockdale has concluded discussions regarding his future by signing a new two-year contract with Ulster, which will retain his services at the club until 2027. The 28-year-old player had previously been associated with a potential transfer to France’s Top 14 league, but he has now pledged his commitment to the Belfast-based team for the period covering the current World Cup cycle. Stockdale had a notable 2023-24 season, scoring nine tries across 16 United Rugby Championship matches, and has contributed three more this current term. This performance led to his recall to the Ireland squad for last month’s Autumn Nations Series victory against Fiji. The recipient of the 2018 Six Nations Grand Slam and player of the tournament award, he has accumulated 127 appearances for Ulster since his debut in 2016. Stockdale, who possesses 38 Ireland caps, stated, “I’m delighted to sign for the next couple of seasons here. I feel good about where my game is at and where this team is heading. There is a lot of excitement around the place with the young players coming up and I am enjoying my role as one of the experienced players in the team.” Stockdale has been absent from Ulster’s lineup since October 18, following his return from Ireland duty with what the club’s head coach, Richie Murphy, characterized as a “significant” hamstring injury. Bryn Cunningham, Ulster’s general manager, commented, “Securing Jacob’s future is key for us, given his importance in the team. It was no surprise to hear about interest in his signature from elsewhere, given his talent and special skillset.” Cunningham continued, “We believe we are seeing Jacob get back to the form he was showing before his long-term ankle injury a couple of years ago. He has showed great resilience and hard work to get back to that level of strength and fitness.” He added, “A fit and confident Jacob is one of the deadliest wingers in rugby and we think the next couple of seasons will see the peak years of his career, both for Ulster and on the international stage in a green jersey.” Stockdale’s extension is the most recent in a series of contract renewals for Ulster in recent weeks, with Ben Carson and Mike Lowry also having prolonged their agreements. Additionally, Ireland Sevens player Zac Ward signed a three-year contract with the province following a successful trial period.