The IRFU have confirmed that Jonathan Sexton will not be playing full time rugby in Ireland next year. It is expected that Sexton has signed a two year deal worth €750,000 per year with French side Racing Metro.

Philip Browne IRFU Chief Executive, in a statement on the IRFU website, said: "We are very disappointed, as we know the Irish rugby public will be, that Johnny Sexton will not be playing his rugby full time in Ireland from next season. Johnny is a major talent and his full time presence in Ireland will be missed, particularly by Leinster. 

"We wish Johnny continued success with his career and he will receive all the support he needs over the next number of weeks in what we know was a very difficult decision for him.

"While we remained in the fight right up until the last possible moment to keep Johnny in Ireland with a very strong offer, ultimately, following negotiations with the player's agent, we had no option but to take the decision that it would not be in the best interest of Irish rugby to chase the reported financial incentives being offered.

Leinster Coach Joe Schmidt said, "Naturally, I'm disappointed. I've really enjoyed Johnny's input over the last few years and he has added tremendous value to the Leinster environment both on and off the field. The offer he has received is exceptional, even by French standards, but I know that it was still a tough decision for him."
Sexton won three Heineken Cups with Leinster, as well as earning 34 caps for Ireland while playing for the province.