Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt has signed a three-year contract extension with the team, keeping him in charge until after the 2019 World Cup in Japan.
Schmidt took over Ireland in November 2013 and has since guided the team to back-to-back Six Nations titles and away wins over South Africa and Argentina.
The New Zealander has now committed his future to the team for a further three years following protracted contract negotiations.
"I would like to thank the IRFU for their patience and confidence, as the decision to continue took somewhat longer than I'd anticipated. It is difficult at times being so far away from extended family, but we appreciate how lucky we are to have the support we have here in Ireland," Schmidt said in a statement.
"The strength of the rugby community has been incredibly visible over the past week, and the enthusiasm of management and players to improve and compete is complemented by a really positive camaraderie. The wider community has made us welcome, and as a family we have benefited immensely from their support.
"Looking forward, there are positive signs with the U20s, finalists at the Junior World Championships this year, the provinces topping three of the five European Champions Cup pools, as well as Ulster and Leinster sharing the lead of the PRO12 at present. With the Guinness series about to begin, facing a dominant New Zealand team, along with Canada and Australia, is going to be a tremendous challenge."
IRFU performance director David Nucifora added: "Joe is one of the leading coaches in world rugby, and it is fantastic for Irish rugby that he has committed until the end of the World Cup cycle. We have a talented group of coaches, and Joe has been central to attracting coaching talent and driving success with the national team."
IRFU chief executive Philip Browne also said: "The IRFU is delighted to confirm that Joe will continue through to the next World Cup. Since coming to Ireland he has made a huge contribution to Irish rugby at provincial and national level, and also actively supports our clubs across the four provinces."
Schmidt will take on his home country of New Zealand in Ireland's autumn series opener in Chicago next month.
Barney Corkhill
