James Ryan and Bundee Aki Extend Contracts with Irish Rugby Football Union

Leinster second row James Ryan and Connacht centre Bundee Aki have both finalized contract extensions with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU). Both players have previously secured three Six Nations titles with Ireland. Aki’s updated agreement will keep him with Connacht and Ireland until the summer of 2026, while Ryan’s contract has been prolonged until 2028. Aki, a 34-year-old native of New Zealand, arrived in Galway in 2014. He made his debut for Ireland against South Africa in 2017 after completing a three-year residency period. He has since earned 60 caps for Ireland and made 142 appearances for Connacht. “I love playing rugby in Ireland and believe that this is the right environment for me to progress as a player,” Aki stated. He added, “I would like to thank the IRFU for their support and I’m excited for what the future holds in green in the years ahead.” IRFU performance director, David Humphreys, expressed his view that Aki still “has a lot more to offer” in the coming years. Humphreys commented, “Bundee has displayed a consistently high level of performance for club and country in recent years and we are delighted to extend his deal.” He further elaborated, “We believe that Bundee has a lot more to offer on the field and has a big role in helping to develop the next batch of exciting youngsters out west in Connacht and within the wider Ireland panel.” Ryan, aged 28, has been a pivotal player for Leinster and Ireland in recent seasons, earning 67 Test caps for his country in addition to 89 appearances for the Dublin-based club. The player, who has also won three Six Nations titles, started three of Ireland’s four Autumn Nations Series matches last month. Ryan shared his perspective, saying, “Playing in ambitious set-ups is a big driver for me personally and I know how committed everyone in Irish Rugby is to work hard and achieve success.” He continued, “It is a privilege to play for my home province and my country and, with the talent coming through the Academy systems, I am excited about what the future holds in blue and green.” Humphreys further remarked on Ryan’s future, stating, “We believe that James’ best years are ahead of him and look forward to watching him progress in the seasons to come.”