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‘He’s been here 125 years’ — James Ryan jokes about Leo Cullen tenure as Leinster chase fifth Champions Cup title

JAMES Ryan jokes that coming to the end of Leo Cullen's "125 years" with Leinster adds extra motivation to the dream of adding a fifth Champions Cup crown to their haul. But the pack enforcer believes the best way to…

Published: Thursday, 15 October 2026 at 6:00 AM
‘He’s been here 125 years’ — James Ryan jokes about Leo Cullen tenure as Leinster chase fifth Champions Cup title
Key Things to Know
  • James Ryan said Leo Cullen's upcoming summer departure provides extra motivation for Leinster's Champions Cup campaign.
  • Leinster open their latest European campaign against Clermont at Stade Marcel-Michelin on Saturday.
  • Ryan believes Leinster must focus on performance rather than obsessing over securing a fifth European title.
The Story in 60 Seconds

James Ryan joked that Leo Cullen has been at Leinster for 125 years, adding that the head coach's upcoming departure next summer provides extra motivation. Leinster begin their pursuit of a fifth Champions Cup title on Saturday against Clermont at Stade Marcel-Michelin. Cullen will make his final attempt to lead the Irish province to European silverware before stepping down.

Ryan stressed that Leinster must focus on performance rather than the outcome to win their first European title since 2018. Despite entering the campaign with limited match sharpness compared to their French opponents, Ryan highlighted the need to start strongly, disrupt Clermont's lineout drive, and execute opportunities inside the 22.

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