Ulster secure Baloucoune, McNabney and Hopes until 2029

Ulster Rugby have confirmed that Robert Baloucoune, James McNabney and Joe Hopes have all signed new contracts that will keep them with the province until at least the summer of 2029.

All three players progressed through the Ulster Rugby Academy and remain part of the province’s long-term plans.

Baloucoune commits after standout Ireland year

Baloucoune has enjoyed an impressive 2026 after his Ulster performances earned him a place in Ireland’s Guinness Six Nations squad.

The 29-year-old wing scored three tries during the Championship as Ireland secured the Triple Crown and was subsequently named the BKT Rising Star player of the Championship.

Baloucoune later featured against New Zealand during Ireland’s summer Nations Championship campaign.

McNabney rewarded after injury comeback

Back-row forward McNabney has also extended his Ulster contract after earning a senior Ireland call-up for the upcoming Nations Championship matches.

The 23-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough 2024/25 season before suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury after being included in Ireland’s summer training squad.

The injury ruled him out for the entire 2025/26 campaign, but McNabney has returned to action this season and worked his way into Andy Farrell’s Ireland squad.

Hopes continues development at Ulster

Former Ireland Under-20 forward Hopes has also signed a new deal through at least 2029.

The 22-year-old can operate at lock or in the back row and continues to gain senior experience while competing for places in Ulster’s matchday squad.

Hopes, the 2022 Ulster Schools Player of the Year, has also been playing for Ballynahinch in Division 1A of the All-Ireland League this season.

Ulster general manager Rory Best said securing all three players was important for the province’s future, highlighting Baloucoune’s Test-level experience and the potential shown by McNabney and Hopes.

“We are delighted to have secured the futures of Rob, James and Joe," said Best.

"Rob has showcased his importance to this Ulster team and the national team with his abilities and performances. He is a test-level winger who has really benefitted from a run of games over the past year.

“Both James and Joe are working hard in the early stages of their professional careers and have both shown a lot of potential in our forward pack.

“Everyone here was delighted to see James called up to the Ireland squad after the adversity he faced coming back from a long-term knee injury.

“We have full belief that all three will form an important part of our Ulster team in the coming years and look forward to seeing what they produce on the field.”