NSW Waratahs and Wallabies prop Angus Bell has confirmed he will join Ulster on a short sabbatical deal after the 2025 international season.
The deal sees Bell link up with United Rugby Championship side Ulster before returning for the 2026 Test calendar.
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Bell re-signed with Australian Rugby until the end of 2027, with a sabbatical clause included in the fresh contract.
The 24-year-old has emerged as one of the best loosehead props in the world and was eager to explore the 'unique' opportunity.
“To play a season for Ulster in the United Rugby Championship will provide me with new experiences and skills which I look forward to bringing back to Australia with me," Bell said in a statement.
“I would like to thank Rugby Australia and the NSW Waratahs for working with me in exploring this unique opportunity.”
He follows in the footsteps of Brumbies centre Len Ikitau, who will play for Exeter in the English Premiership before his return in mid-2026.
Bell heads to Northern Ireland for the short stint with the Waratahs and Rugby Australia's blessing, eager to see him grow.
“We’ve looked at this opportunity with a long-term view and we think a season in Ulster will be a positive experience for Angus," RA Head of High Performance Peter Horne said.
“At just 24-years-old this will be a great opportunity for him to grow as a player and a person and we look forward to seeing him return home ahead of the next year’s international season.”
“We’re supportive of Angus’ decision to continue his personal growth," Waratahs coach Dan McKellar added.
"He’s a young man, who came straight out of school into the NSW Waratahs system, and we think the time at Ulster will be good for his development on and off the field, which ultimately will help the Waratahs long term.
“We’ve had a focus on creating depth within our squad this year and Angus’ time in Ireland will provide opportunities for others who are willing to continue to work hard to earn opportunities in the sky blue jersey.”
