Simon Easterby to become interim Ireland Head Coach in December

The experienced coach will take over from current boss Andy Farrell, who will take charge of the British and Irish Lions Tour to Australia in 2025.

INTERIM HEAD COACH: The IRFU have confirmed that Simon Easterby will become Interim Ireland Men's Head Coach from December 1. Picture:   Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

The IRFU have confirmed that Simon Easterby will become Interim Ireland Men's Head Coach from December 1.

Easterby will take the reins from current Head Coach Andy Farrell who will take charge of the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia in 2025 and will be in charge for the 2025 Guinness Six Nations and Men's Summer Tour 2025 details of which will be confirmed at a later date.

Easterby will lead Emerging Ireland for the second time when they travel to South Africa next month.

“To be asked to lead the Ireland team is a huge honour and one that I am thrilled to accept," he says. 

"I’m looking forward to working with the talented backroom team and players while Andy is away with the British and Irish Lions.

“I have greatly enjoyed being a part of the Men’s National Team journey over the last 10 years and I believe that there are even brighter days ahead as we build towards a huge few months. 

"There’s a lot to play for before December and we’re looking forward to providing the next crop of future Irish players with a chance to impress against talented international opponents in South Africa and then across the four Autumn Nations Series matches at Aviva Stadium.”

IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys said: “I am delighted to confirm Simon’s promotion later this year and it is recognition of his evolution and high-standing as a coach within the Ireland set-up over the last 10 years.

“Today’s announcement ensures a smooth transition and continuity as Ireland looks to build towards an exciting few months ahead. Over the last decade Simon has moved from Forwards Coach to Defence Coach and he has played a key role in Ireland’s success during that time.

"As Head Coach for the Emerging Ireland Tour to South Africa in 2022 he had a front row seat as a number of players pushed on to achieve international selection in the intervening period. It is our hope that Simon and his coaching team can help reap more positive performances in the upcoming Emerging Ireland Tour to South Africa and then in the months to come.”