Laporte to quit coaching after World Cup

France coach Bernard Laporte has announced he will retire from coaching after the 2007 World Cup.

The 41-year-old took charge of Les Bleus in 1999 and has led them to three Six Nations titles, including two Grand Slams in 2002 and 2004.

He has now set the 2007 World Cup – to be contested between September 7 and October 20 on French soil – as his last challenge with the France team.

“One thing is sure, I will not be the national coach anymore nor will I take the reins of another club after the World Cup,” he said.