Andy Farrell has been confirmed as the head coach of the British & Irish Lions side that will tour Australia next year.
Farrell, who won a Six Nations Grand Slam with Ireland in 2023 and guided them to the top of the world rankings, was Lions defensive coach on previous tours to Australia in 2013 and New Zealand in 2017.
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He takes over from Warren Gatland, and will assume his Lions duties in December 2024 before reverting back to his role with Ireland.
Farrell said: “It is a tremendous honour and a privilege to be named head coach of the British & Irish Lions. I know how special Lions tours are having been involved in the 2013 and 2017 tours, so I am delighted to get the chance to lead the team in 2025.
“There is a wealth of talent across Britain and Ireland, and I am looking forward to building a team that can deliver the ultimate goal of success in Australia. I also want to thank the Irish Rugby Football Union for their support in allowing me to accept this prestigious opportunity.”
Leading the Lions into a new era…
Your #Lions2025 Head Coach: Andy Farrell.#Howden @CanterburyNZ
— British & Irish Lions (@lionsofficial) January 11, 2024
Ben Calveley, British and Irish Lions CEO, added: “Andy is without question one of the best coaches in the world and knows what it takes to win a series in Australia given his involvement in the win in 2013.
“His achievements with Ireland in recent years have been exceptional and his coaching experience at test-match level with Ireland, England and the British & Irish Lions make him an outstanding candidate for this role.
“Andy is an excellent appointment for us and one which we believe will excite players and fans alike. It is clear to see that Andy has built a very strong connection between the Irish team and its fans and we are relishing a similarly strong connection being created with Lions fans in 2025.
“We firmly believe his appointment puts us in a great position to achieve success on the field and I’m looking forward to working alongside him as we build towards the tour.”
