Irish winger Jacob Stockdale has ended speculation over his future by signing a new two-year contract with Ulster, keeping him at the club until 2027.
He was 28 years old Related to moving to Francebut has committed his future to the Belfast-based club throughout the current World Cup cycle.
Stockdale has enjoyed a strong 2023-24 season with nine tries in 16 United Rugby Championship matches and has added three tries this season, leading his return to Ireland in last month's Autumn Nations Series win over Fiji.
The 2018 Six Nations Grand Slam winner and Player of the Tournament has made 127 appearances for Ulster after joining the squad in 2016.
“I'm delighted to be signing here for the next two seasons,” said Stockdale, who has 38 caps for Ireland.
“I feel good about the level of my game and where this team is headed. There is a lot of excitement around the place with the young players coming up and I'm enjoying my role as one of the experienced players in the team.”
Stockdale has not played for Ulster since October 18 after returning from duty in Ireland with what club coach Richie Murphy described as a “major” hamstring injury.
Ulster general manager Bryn Cunningham said: “Securing Jacob's future is key for us, given his importance to the team. It was no surprise to hear of interest in signing him from elsewhere, given his special talent and skillset.”
“We believe we see Jacob returning to the form he was showing before his long-term ankle injury two years ago. He has shown great resilience and hard work to get back to this level of strength and fitness.
“Fit and confident Jacob is one of the most lethal wingers in rugby, and we believe the next two seasons will see the peak years of his career, both with Ulster and on the international stage in the green jersey.”
Stockdale is the latest in a string of Ulster contract extensions in recent weeks, with Ben Carson and Mike Lowry also extending their deals. Ireland Sevens star Zach Ward has also signed a three-year contract with the county after a successful trial period.