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Fringe Ireland international Nick Timoney has explained his decision to extend his Ulster contract rather than seek a new adventure overseas. The 29-year-old back-rower had sparked interest from overseas for his services for the 2025/26 season, but instead decided it was best for his future to stay in Belfast until 2027 on a two-year contract extension.
Timoney was recently a member of Andy Farrell’s Autumn Nations Series squad but failed to qualify for Ireland selection and still does not have a Test cap since the match against Fiji in November 2022.
But his international misfortune has not affected his belief in what Ulster can achieve under Richie Murphy, who succeeds Dan McFarland at the helm in early 2024. Dubliner Timoney, who made his Ulster debut in 2017, said: New deal.
“I feel very comfortable here and I believe we have a squad that can develop and get better over the next few years. We have some young talent adding to our group of experienced players and this is something that will get you excited and motivated for the season ahead.
“I have said I want to continue to improve as a player and I fully believe I can be the best I can be here at Ulster.”
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Ulster general manager Bryn Cunningham added: “Securing a deal for Nick before the Christmas period was our top priority and we are delighted that he is fully invested in what we are trying to build here. Nick is one of the most versatile back row players in Europe and it would not be surprising to hear interest in him from other big clubs.
“His journey from Academy 7s to playing for the A team and progressing to the senior team was full of hard work and dedication, which helped him develop into the player we see today. “He is a benchmark for those around him and is a very popular member of our senior team due to the attitude, commitment and leadership he displays every week, and will be a key part of this team’s future.”
Timoney, who has made over 150 appearances for Ulster, produced a man of the match performance on his last appearance, skippering his side to a URC victory at Connacht on December 28.
