The Daily Star Ireland
Leinster Rugby has confirmed that head coach Leo Cullen will continue in his role until at least the end of the 2026/27 season, with the former captain signing a new contract that will take him into his second decade at the helm.
Although Cullen’s current contract was set to expire at the end of this season, the province’s leadership and the IRFU have expressed their confidence in him despite some fan criticism following three seasons without a trophy. His strong track record with the team has earned him a contract extension.
Cullen, who retired from playing in 2014, spent a year as forwards coach before taking over as head coach in 2015 after Leinster parted ways with Matt O’Connor. Despite a challenging first season, Cullen brought in Stuart Lancaster, and together they led Leinster to four PRO14 titles and a Champions Cup win in 2018.
Under Cullen’s leadership, Leinster has become a dominant force in Irish rugby, consistently competing at the top level. However, the past three seasons have been disappointing, with defeats in Champions Cup finals to La Rochelle twice and Toulouse, and no appearance in a URC final.
Cullen expressed his gratitude to Leinster Rugby’s Shane Nolan, Guy Easterby, and the IRFU’s David Humphreys for their support throughout the contract process. He also thanked his family, especially his wife Dairine, for their ongoing support and sacrifices.
Leinster’s chief executive Shane Nolan emphasized Cullen’s deep connection with the province, noting that securing him on a longer-term deal was a top priority. Nolan highlighted Cullen’s impressive achievements, including five trophies with Leinster and the development of nearly 100 debutants, most of whom have come through the club’s youth pathways.
While acknowledging the disappointment of recent seasons, Nolan pointed out that Cullen’s leadership has kept Leinster competitive year after year. He also noted the club’s continued success in developing homegrown talent and attracting top-tier recruits.
Looking ahead, Nolan stressed that Cullen’s understanding of the Leinster ecosystem, its communities, culture, and DNA made him the ideal person to continue leading the team. With a strong start to the new season, including sitting at the top of the BKT United Rugby Championship table, Nolan believes the club is in a great position for future success. The decision to extend Cullen’s contract for two more years was an easy one, he concluded.
