Ulster Rugby is delighted to announce that Robert Baloucoune, James McNabney and Joe Hopes have all signed new contracts with the province until at least the summer of 2029.
All three players have been developed through the Ulster Rugby Academy and are set to continue playing an important role in the Senior Men’s squad.
Renowned for his unique attacking ability, Ireland international wing Rob Baloucoune has cemented himself as one of the most dangerous backs in world rugby, with electric acceleration and world-class finishing ability.
2026 has been a standout year for Baloucoune, whose performances in the Ulster jersey saw him called up to the Ireland squad for Guinness Six Nations. The Enniskillen man would score three tries across the Championship, playing a pivotal role as Ireland secured a Triple Crown. The 29-year-old was subsequently named the BKT Rising Star player of the Championship.
That springtime success led to playing in the Summer Nations Championship test against New Zealand.
A recent call-up to Andy Farrell’s Nations Championship Squad, 23-year-old back-row forward James McNabney, extends his contract following a whirlwind start to his Ulster career.
Following a breakthrough campaign in 2024/25, Ballymena native McNabney impressed with his explosive carrying and strong physicality.
A highly regarded talent, he was included in the Ireland summer training squad before sustaining an unfortunate long-term ACL injury, ruling him out for 2025/26.
After working hard in his recovery for over a year, McNabney has made a welcome return to the field for Ulster and is putting himself in the national team conversation with his potential and ability.
Former Ireland U20s forward Joe Hopes, also has put pen to paper on a new extension, with the 22-year-old primed for an exciting future.
Capable of playing a hybrid role at lock or back-row with his physical profile, Hopes, has made a good impression at senior level and continues to develop his game.
The 2022 Ulster Schools Player of the Year has been gaining important minutes this season for Ballynahinch RFC in the AIL 1A division while competing for selection in Ulster’s matchday squads.
Ulster Rugby General Manager, Rory Best, commented:
“We are delighted to have secured the futures of Rob, James and Joe.
"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.”