Ireland star Bundee Aki is contracted until 2026, but questions remain over where he\u2019ll play beyond that \u2013 and whether he\u2019ll still be central to Andy Farrell\u2019s plans.<\/p>\n
The Connacht powerhouse has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence, capped by his call-up to the\u00a02025 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia. <\/p>\n
Join the\u00a0RUCK\u2019s WhatsApp community here<\/a>\u00a0and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.<\/p>\n Aki featured in all three Tests, starting two, and even crossed for the Lions\u2019 first try of the tour in their warm-up clash against Argentina.<\/p>\n Yet his club future is far from settled. Aki previously held talks with Bristol Bears, where a reunion with ex-Connacht boss Pat Lam was on the cards, before his international form spiked.<\/p>\n Now, Newcastle \u201cRed Bulls\u201d are being touted as another potential destination, with ex-Ireland international Ronan O\u2019Gara linked to Kingston Park. <\/p>\n The Premiership outfit are also believed to be weighing up a move for Ireland fly-half Joey Carbery as they look to rebuild ahead of the next cycle.<\/p>\n For now, Aki remains a key figure for both Ireland and Connacht. But as 2026 edges closer, all eyes will be on whether he sticks with the IRFU or seeks one final challenge abroad.<\/p>\n EDITORS PICKS:\u00a0<\/p>\n 2027 Rugby World Cup Draw: England get tough pool<\/p>\n The 2027 Rugby World Cup is set to be a landmark tournament, expanding to 24 teams and hosted by Australia from October 1 to November 13, 2027. <\/p>\n The official pool draw is scheduled for December 2025, but based on current World Rugby rankings, here\u2019s a predicted breakdown of the pools and profiles of the teams involved.<\/p>\n Pool A<\/p>\n New Zealand \u2013 The Mighty All Blacks<\/p>\n The All Blacks are perennial powerhouses with three World Cup titles (1987, 2011, 2015). They reached the final in 2023 but were narrowly defeated by South Africa 12\u201311.<\/p>\n Argentina \u2013 Los Pumas on the Prowl<\/p>\n Los Pumas are known for their physical play and passionate fan base, consistently challenging top-tier teams.<\/p>\n Portugal \u2013 The Lusitanian Lancers<\/p>\n Emerging as a strong contender, Portugal has been improving steadily, surprising bigger nations with their grit.<\/p>\n USA \u2013 The Eagle Soars<\/p>\n The Eagles are steadily developing their rugby program, with increasing participation and performance levels.<\/p>\n Pool B<\/p>\n Ireland \u2013 The Emerald Warriors<\/p>\n Ireland boasts a rich rugby history and a strong domestic league, making them a formidable opponent in any pool.<\/p>\n Scotland \u2013 The Braveheart Tacklers<\/p>\n Scotland is known for tactical play and resilience, consistently challenging the sport\u2019s elite.<\/p>\n Uruguay \u2013 Los Teros Tenacious<\/p>\n Uruguay has grown significantly in international rugby, showcasing strong defense and spirited play.<\/p>\n Chile \u2013 The Rugby Condors<\/p>\n Chile is making strides, with a growing domestic scene and increasing international experience.<\/p>\n CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO<\/a><\/p>\n Like this:<\/p>\n Like Loading…<\/p>\n