A key figure for both province and country, Stuart McCloskey has enjoyed a standout season, where his dominant midfield performances across Ireland's Triple Crown-winning campaign caught the attention of the rugby world.
The 33-year-old was shortlisted for the Guinness Men's Six Nations Player of the Championship award, leading the way for try assists (six), dominant contacts (18), turnovers won (8), and minutes played.
McCloskey showed the uniqueness of his offloading game, with a memorable quarter-back style pass out wide to Robert Baloucoune for his match-winning try against Italy at the Aviva Stadium.
In one of the moments of the Championship, McCloskey shocked many with his turn of pace and sheer effort to track back and tackle England's Marcus Smith into touch when a try seemed a certainty.
Ireland's record-breaking victory at Twickenham gained many new admirers, with the French media hailing the Bangor man as 'The Irish Fridge'.
Those eye-catching displays were no surprise to Ulster supporters, who have watched 'Big Stu' consistently perform in an Ulster jersey.
With 217 games for his native province, the former Dungannon player is on the verge of going level with former captain Rory Best, who has the third most senior appearances for Ulster with 218.
McCloskey played 13 matches for the province this past season, and was a pivotal figure as Richie Murphy's men reached the EPCR Challenge Cup final.
His semi-final performance against Exeter Chiefs was another standout, before a hamstring injury late in the second half ended his season prematurely.
He picked up several individual awards in recognition of a stellar year, including the 2025/26 Bank of Ireland Senior Men's Player of the Year and the URSC (Ulster Rugby Supporters Club) Player of the Year honours, and was selected as the OCC Consulting Men's 15s Players' Player of the Year at the Rugby Players Ireland Awards.
Now back fit again, he will turn his focus to Ireland's inaugural Nations Championship Southern Hemisphere Series, with upcoming Tests against Australia, Japan, and New Zealand in July.
Commenting on today's announcement, McCloskey said: "Ulster is my home and I'm delighted to have signed a new extension.
"I feel we are developing well as a team and showed this season that we can really compete against strong sides by getting to a European final.
"There is some strong talent coming through here, and playing with the lads on the international stage has given everyone a big lift.
"From a personal point of view, it's been a whirlwind season and I'm feeling confident in where my game is at. I also feel I've surprised a few people who keep mentioning my age!
"I'm really enjoying my rugby and feel very motivated to achieve more over the next couple of seasons for both Ulster and Ireland."
Rory Best, Ulster Rugby's General Manager, added: "Securing Stuart for another season is a vital piece of business for us going forward.
"The past season has shown that he is getting better with his experience and aging like a fine wine!
"He is one of the top international centres in the world right now and he brings a very consistent level of performance each time he plays, with the ability to break the gainline and play others into space with his unique passing range.
"For our young centres coming through, he is someone that they can learn so much from.
"Stuart is a vital figure for us, and we are excited to see the impact he will bring for both Ulster and Ireland in the future."
