Ultan Dillane

Ultan Dillane (born 9 November 1993) is an Irish rugby union player. He plays for La Rochelle in the Top 14 which is the top tier of rugby union in France. Dillane primarily plays as a lock.

Early life Dillane was born in Paris, France to an Irish mother. His father is from the Ivory Coast. At the age of seven, Dillane moved to Ireland, settling in Tralee in his mother's native county of Kerry. Dillane attended St Mary's Christian Brothers School in Tralee.

Early career Dillane first played rugby for his local club Tralee RFC. Invited to play by a neighbour, but reluctant to take up the sport at first, Dillane and his brother were promised €5 by their mother if they went.

In December 2021, it was announced that Dillane would leave Connacht at the end of the season. The following year he agreed a two-year contract with La Rochelle, to start with the prominent French club in the 2022–23 season.

International career Dillane received his first senior Ireland call up from coach Joe Schmidt as part of the squad for the 2016 Six Nations. He made his international debut as a replacement in the third round match against England on 27 February 2016.

Honours Pro 12: Winner 2015-16 European Rugby Champions Cup: 2022–23