Stuart McCloskey commits to Ulster after standout season

Ulster have secured the services of Stuart McCloskey until at least 2028, with the Ireland centre signing a new one-year contract extension.

McCloskey, 33, enjoyed a standout 2025/26 season which resulted in a nomination for this year’s Guinness Men’s Six Nations Player of the Championship.

He started all five of Ireland’s games at inside centre and led the way for try assists (six), dominant contacts (18), turnovers won (8) and minutes played.

With 217 appearances for Ulster, the former Dungannon RFC player is on the verge of equalling the third most senior Ulster appearances ever (218) alongside former captain, Rory Best.

McCloskey played 13 matches for Ulster last season and was a pivotal figure as the province reached the EPCR Challenge Cup Final, although a hamstring injury in the semi-final prevented him from playing in the showpiece match against Montpellier and ruled him out for the remainder of the season.

Now fit again, McCloskey will be part of the Ireland team that takes on Australia, Japan and New Zealand in July.

“Ulster is my home and I’m delighted to have signed a new extension. I feel we are developing well as a team and showed last season that we can really compete against strong sides by getting to a European Final,” said McCloskey about his decision to extend his stay.

“There is some strong talent coming through here and playing with the lads on the international stage has given everyone a big lift.

“From a personal point of view, it’s been a whirlwind season and I’m feeling confident in where my game is at. I also feel I’ve surprised a few people who keep mentioning my age!

“I’m really enjoying my rugby and feel very motivated to achieve more over the next couple of seasons for both Ulster and Ireland.”

Ulster Rugby’s General Manager, Rory Best added: “Securing Stuart for another season is a vital piece of business for us going forward. The past season has shown that he is getting better with his experience and aging like a fine wine!

“He is one of the top international centres in the world right now and he brings a very consistent level of performance each time he plays, with the ability to break the gain line and play others into space with his unique passing range.

“For our young centres coming through, he is someone that they can learn so much from.

“Stuart is a vital figure for us, and we are excited to see the impact he will bring for both Ulster and Ireland in the future.”