Bemand extends stay as Ireland head coach through to 2029 World Cup

Ireland open their Six Nations campaign against England on April 11

Scott Bemand took over as head coach in 2023. Pic: ©INPHO/Ben Brady

Scott Bemand has signed a contract extension to remain as head coach of the Irish women's rugby team until the 2029 World Cup. 

The Englishman took over from Greg McWilliams on a three-year deal in 2023. He led Ireland to victory in the inaugural WXV3 tournament in Dubai, a third place finish in the Six Nations to automatically qualify for the 2025 World Cup in England and then a victory over New Zealand at WXV1 in Vancouver to finish second in that tournament.

At last year's World Cup, Ireland qualified for the quarter-final stage following pool stage victories over Spain and Japan before being edged out in a thrilling quarter-final by France in Exeter.

"It is a great privilege to sign on for another Rugby World Cup cycle with the IRFU and reaffirm my commitment and belief in the squad and programme moving forward," said Bemand. "We have made positive progress in recent years but we know there is more to come from our group and are excited to build on the foundations we have laid.

"There's a strong work ethic, determination and belief within the playing squad and staff, and I’m committed to building on that as we aim to compete at the highest level, starting with the upcoming Guinness Women's Six Nations which gives us an opportunity to push ourselves further on the biggest Test stage."

IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys said: "We're delighted to secure Scott's future for the next Rugby World Cup cycle at an important growth stage for our women's squad. The tireless work, dedication and investment Scott has put into the programme over the last couple of years has been evident through the team's performances, and it was important for us to retain Scott's leadership moving forward into this year's Guinness Women's Six Nations campaign and beyond.

"In addition to the team's on-field growth and evolution during Scott's tenure, he has placed a huge emphasis on the development of young players and as we build towards 2029 Rugby World Cup in Australia, we're excited to advance the squad's depth, ambition and performance levels."

Ireland will open the Six Nations away to England at Allianz Stadium on April 11 before hosting Italy at Dexcom Stadium on April 18.