Iain Henderson lands two-year IRFU contact extension

Iain Henderson signs new deal with the IRFU.

Ulster second row Iain Henderson has been rewarded with a two-year IRFU contract extension which will keep him at Ulster until the summer of 2025.

The 72-cap international has had a luckless run with injuries in recent times. He missed last summer’s successful tour of New Zealand with a knee problem, he was later ruled out of the Autumn Series, and then suffered a fractured forearm during the Six Nations Championship back in March.

As a talented two-time British and Irish Lion tourist however, Henderson is one of the highest rated players in the country and this new deal reflects the esteem in which he is held by the IRFU.

Henderson pleased with new IRFU deal.

“I am delighted to sign with the IRFU and Ulster for another two seasons and look forward to continuing my journey in Ireland,” Henderson said.

“It is an incredible honour pulling on my provincial and international colours and I believe that there is more to come as we look to build in the months ahead.”

While, IRFU High Performance Director David Nucifora said he was “delighted” to tie Henderson down for two more years:

“Iain has developed into an important leader within both the Ireland and Ulster environments and we are delighted to have ensured that he continues his career in Ireland,” he said.

“I have no doubt that he will continue to add positively to both environments in the months and years to come.”

Iain Henderson.

Henderson made his Ireland debut in 2012 against South Africa has been an important player for the national team ever since.

He tasted Six Nations success in 2014, 2015, 2018 and 2023, and also celebrated the Triple Crown in 2022.

The 31-year-old is yet to secure silverware at provincial level but he was recognised for his contribution to Ulster Rugby by being appointed captain in 2019.