Rory Best Appointed Ulster Rugby General Manager Overseeing Club Future

Rory Best, former captain of Ireland and Ulster Rugby, has been appointed as the new General Manager of Ulster Rugby, returning to Affidea Stadium to lead the province's future on and off the pitch. Best, who made 219 appearances for Ulster and earned 124 international caps including captaining Ireland to Grand Slam success, will oversee professional rugby operations, player development, and performance pathways. His appointment is seen as a landmark moment, aiming to reconnect Ulster with its core values and identity while capitalizing on a strategic plan to restore the team to top competitive form. Best expressed honor in returning to the club and enthusiasm for helping Ulster build on its strong foundations. He succeeds Bryn Cunningham, who stepped down after 11 years, and will continue efforts to rebuild the team’s competitiveness in the United Rugby Championship and qualify again for the Champions Cup. Ulster CEO Hugh McCaughey praised Best’s leadership qualities and vision, emphasizing the shared goal of achieving Ulster’s full potential.