Ireland Star Signs Two-Year Deal, While Springbok Lands Big-Money Deal
Ireland Star Signs Two-Year Deal, While Springbok Lands Big-Money Deal
Mack Hansen has committed to Ireland and Connacht Rugby with a new two-year contract, keeping him in Irish Rugby until 2027, a massive boost ahead of RWC.
Ireland and Connacht Rugby received a major boost, as Mack Hansen signed a new two-year central contract that will keep him in the Irish setup until at least the end of the 2026-2027 season.
Hansen, who made his international debut against Wales in February 2022, has quickly established himself as a vital part of Ireland's back three.
With 27 caps and 12 tries to his name, the 25-year-old winger has been a key performer for both his club and country.
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"Since moving to Ireland, I have loved my time, and I am delighted to sign this new contract," Hansen said. "Playing in Ireland with Connacht means a huge amount to me, and I feel that I have improved because of the coaching and structures here."
His decision to remain with Connacht and Ireland comes as the team continues to build toward the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Hansen, who was nominated for World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year in his debut season, has been a fan favorite thanks to his dynamic attacking play and resilience on the field.
David Humphreys, the IRFU Performance Director, praised Hansen's decision to commit his future to Irish Rugby.
"As a mainstay of the Ireland and Connacht sides in recent years, securing Mack’s signature over the coming seasons is a huge boost for Irish rugby," Humphreys said. "He is a proven performer, someone who wears his heart on his sleeve and delivers on the big occasion."
Since joining Connacht ahead of the 2021-2022 season, Hansen has made 38 appearances for the province.
His commitment is expected to play a crucial role in Ireland's continued success as the team prepares for major international tournaments in the coming years.
Meanwhile, in South Africa, reports have surfaced about Handre Pollard's high-profile return to the Bulls.
The two-time Rugby World Cup-winning fly-half has signed a lucrative two-year contract, one of the biggest in South African rugby history, following the expiration of his Leicester Tigers deal.
Pollard, who was linked with a move to Japan, opted instead for a return to Pretoria, where he previously starred for the Bulls. His salary is reported to be in the region of his earnings at Leicester, which stood at approximately £650,000 per season.
The financial backing for the move came from the Bulls’ shareholders, including Johann Rupert and Patrice Motsepe, alongside South African Rugby's Player of National Interest contract system.
The Bulls also are set to welcome back Jan Serfontein and Nico Janse van Rensburg from Montpellier, along with Stormers scrumhalf Paul de Wet. However, former Sharks and Lions prop Carlu Sadie will remain in France after signing an extension with Bordeaux.
With Hansen staying in Ireland and Pollard returning to South Africa, both nations continue to secure their top talents ahead of the second half of the 2027 Rugby World Cup cycle.
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