Andy Farrell: British and Irish Lions confirm Ireland coach as new boss for Australia tour

Farrell takes over from Warren Gatland, who took charge of the last three tours

Nick Purewal11 January 2024

Andy Farrell will lead the British and Irish Lions into a new era after finally being confirmed as the team's head coach.

The Ireland boss will take up the baton from Warren Gatland, who led the last three Lions tours.

Farrell will head up the Lions’ trip to Australia in 2025, and will now accelerate the process of selecting a first-rate backroom staff.

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend and La Rochelle boss Ronan O’Gara will be in the frame for assistant roles in the Lions' senior team.

Mike Catt could also be in the mix however, with Farrell’s Ireland attack coach relinquishing his Dublin role this summer.

Former England centre and coach Catt has advanced his reputation significantly by turning Ireland’s attacking game into one of the most precise in Test rugby.

Farrell and Catt work extremely well together, and the former Bath star could be a fine foil for the new Lions supremo.

Wales head coach Gatland led the Lions to a series win in Australia in 2013, before securing a stunning draw in New Zealand four years later.

That drawn series with the All Blacks proved the Lions’ first tour to New Zealand that did not end in defeat since 1971.

“It is a tremendous honour and a privilege to be named head coach of the Lions,” said Farrell.

“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.”