Leo Cullen has agreed to remain as head coach of Leinster Rugby for an eighth season, having agreed a further one-year contract extension with the IRFU and the province.
The Blues supremo signed a rolling one-year contract extension last May, with the option to extend for a further season at the end of 2021/22, having been offered a two-year deal.
That extension has now been agreed up to the end of the 2022/23 season.
Leinster Rugby CEO Mick Dawson explained: “We offered Leo a two-year contract last year but were very happy to work with Leo to make the situation work for him.
"It was always our intention, all going well, that we would sit down again and agree to the second year and that has been the case. It has been very straight forward thankfully.
“I’d like to thank Leo for his work and his dedication and indeed thank his wife Dairine, and his wider family, for the support they give to him in allowing him to be the coach that he is.
“The job that Leo has done in his time as Head Coach has been excellent and he has with him, a group of coaches and staff, that contribute and drive the standards that we have here today at Leinster Rugby.
"They have created a hugely positive environment for the players over the last few years to perform to the best of their abilities.
“That continuity in our coaching team is a vital piece of the puzzle for us, as well as having someone like Leo who understands the system, our pathway and the importance of the clubs and the schools to the future success of Leinster Rugby.
“I wish Leo every success for the rest of this season and indeed the season to come.”
Cullen, who won 221 caps for Leinster and was captain of three Heineken Cup-winning squads, was appointed head coach at the start of the 2015/16 season and has guided the team to a Champions Cup and four PRO14/URC titles in his time in charge.
The 44-year-old has formed a very successful partnership with senior coach Stuart Lancaster.
IRFU Performance Director, David Nucifora, commented: “It’s great that Leo has again extended his contract to remain in his role with Leinster Rugby.
“The combined strength of Irish rugby lies in the cohesion and alignment we have with our provinces and with our pathways.
"Stability in our coaching ranks is a key part of what underpins Irish rugby.”
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