Exit negotiations see Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding ‘paid off’ by the IRFU

On Saturday, it was announced that Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding had had their contracts revoked by the IRFU with immediate effect.

Last month in Belfast, both men were found not guilty of rape and were acquitted of all charges against them. And now The Sunday Independent reports that a "financial settlement' was reached with Jackson and Olding by rugby officials. The publication explains that the players will be "financially compensated before they leave to begin new careers abroad". It adds:

"The IRFU's decision to revoke the players' contracts and pay off most of the remainder of their contracts is seen as a 'corporate clean up' exercise to restore the sport's reputation."

It is believed that during the internal investigation into the men's behaviour, Jackson and Olding were told a "disciplinary process" would begin. The Sunday Independent states "it was made clear that in the end they would most likely have their contracts terminated". The IRFU settlement now allows the players to move on from the high-profile trial and to play for clubs in the UK or France. https://twitter.com/cormacbourke/status/985279771805470720