Andy Farrell has agreed to a new, extended contract that will keep him as Ireland’s head coach through the Rugby
World Cup 2027.
Despite entering the World Cup as the top-seeded team in the world, Farrell’s Irish team lost to New Zealand in the
quarterfinals.
In addition to winning a Grand Slam earlier this year, he guided Ireland to their first-ever series victory in New
Zealand last summer.
In 2019, he was named head coach of Ireland.
The Englishman, who had been a member of the New Zealand coaching team since 2016, took the place of Joe
Schmidt. His previous contract had expired in 2025. In October, he was named World Rugby Coach of the Year.
Former coaches Sir Ian McGeechan and Warren Gatland have endorsed Farrell to lead the British and Irish Lions on
their 2025 trip of Australia, and he has been heavily connected to the vacant head coach post.
The thought of Farrell captaining the Lions is welcomed by the IRFU, but it would mean that he would have to step
away from his position with Ireland, just as Gatland did when he was in charge of Wales during the 2013 and 2017
tours.
Additionally, it was revealed on Thursday that Mike Catt, the attack coach, will step down following Ireland’s
summer tour of South Africa.
“Coaching Ireland has been a hugely enjoyable experience, and I am proud to extend my association with the IRFU,”
Farrell said in regards to his new contract.
“That is
“I am excited to see how the final Ireland Under-20 squads will emerge and compete for international honors soon.
There is a talented group of experienced internationals who are determined to succeed at the international level for
Ireland.”
“It all makes for an exciting next chapter and it is one which my family and I are delighted to continue.”
“Excellent mentor and motivating leader”
After an outstanding performance in a challenging group, Ireland lost to the All Blacks in the World Cup final eight.
Since then, they have not played.
In addition to convincing victories over Romania and Tonga, Ireland defeated Scotland with an incredibly
remarkable display after a thrilling clash with eventual tournament winners South Africa.
After playing their next game in France in February, Farrell’s team will play their first Six Nations encounter without
captain Johnny Sexton, who announced his retirement following the World Cup. In July, they will play two Test
matches against the world champions in South Africa.
“Over the course of the last four years Andy has helped drive the highest standards for the men’s national team and it
is testament to the positive environment which he and his backroom team have fostered that Ireland has enjoyed
such a sustained period of success in recent times,” said David Nucifora, performance director for the IRFU.
“It’s a big deal that Andy, a driven and gifted coach, is leaving his lasting legacy in Irish rugby.
Kevin Potts, the CEO of the Irish Rugby Union, stated that Farrell’s new contract is a “hugely positive boost” for Irish
rugby.
“Through his leadership of our men’s national team, Andy has already made a significant contribution to Irish rugby.
He is a world-class coach and an inspirational leader with great talent and integrity.”
“We are extremely pleased that he has agreed to remain in Ireland.”
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