IRFU Confirm Rob Kearney Contract Extension Up To World Cup

Leinster and Ireland full-back Rob Kearney has signed a contract extension with the IRFU through to November 2019.

Rob Kearney made his Ireland debut against Argentina in June 2007 and has won 83 caps for his country, scoring 13 tries and a conversion. In an outstanding achievement, he started every game of the successful 2014 and 2015 Six Nations-winning campaigns as well as every game of the 2009 and 2018 Grand Slam seasons.
 
Injury denied him the chance to tour in the summer of 2016 but he returned in the green shirt in November of that year, playing a key role in Ireland’s historic victory over New Zealand at Soldier Field in Chicago.
 
At Leinster, the 31-year-old has made a massive contribution to the province’s on-field success with three Heineken Cups, an Amlin Challenge Cup and three Celtic League/PRO12 titles. He was named ERC European Player of the Year in 2012.

 
Kearney made his competitive senior debut for Leinster against the Ospreys in September 2005 and has since made 193 appearances for the province, scoring 223 points. A two-time Lions tourist in 2009 and 2013, he played in all three Tests on the South Africa tour nine years ago.
 
IRFU Performance Director David Nucifora said: “Rob has continually illustrated his value to Irish Rugby over a stellar career, and in his eleventh season in a green jersey he has produced stand-out performances. He is a leader and a fantastic example to young professionals at Leinster and with the national squad.”
 
Kearney commented: “I am delighted to have extended my IRFU contract and look forward to continuing to achieve with this Ireland squad. There have been some fantastic days for both Ireland and Leinster over the course of my career, and there is huge potential for growth in both squads as we look to build and develop and challenge for honours.”