Felipe Contepomi replaces Michael Cheika as new Argentina head coach

Argentina have announced former international Felipe Contepomi as their new head coach.

Contepomi will replace Michael Cheika in the role after the latter led them to a fourth place finish in the recently concluded World Cup in France. The 46-year-old was Cheika's assistant during the showpiece event having joined them from Leinster at the end of the 2021/22 season.

He had a stellar domestic career spanning for 15 years having played for Bristol, Leinster, Toulon, Stade Francais and Club Newman. He also represented Argentina in 87 Tests between 1998 and 2013.

Following his retirement to the playing career, Contepomi joined Argentina XV as a head coach alongside Ricardo Le Fort before moving to Leinster as backs coach in 2018.

“I want to thank all Argentines for these wonderful years together, as well as the UAR, the staff and the players for having trusted me for this challenge,” said Cheika.

He added: “Having been the head coach of Los Pumas fills me with pride and is one of the experiences that I enjoyed the most in my career as a coach.

“Although I was born in Australia, a large part of me will be Argentina. I am convinced that Felipe and his staff are going to lead the team in the best way possible.”