Cullie Tucker to take charge of Ireland U20 team

Connacht and the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) have confirmed that Cullie Tucker will become the new head coach of the Ireland Men’s U20 side from the 2026-27 season.

The experienced coach will depart Connacht at the end of the 2025/26 campaign and currently serves as Scrum and Contact Coach.

Tucker recently led the Ireland XV to a victory over Spain in Madrid and has also served as an assistant coach with Ireland A and on Ireland’s 2025 summer tour. His extensive provincial and national experience made him a leading candidate for the position.

The IRFU announced that Andrew Browne will remain in charge of the U20s for the 2025-26 season before Tucker assumes the role full-time.

In a statement, Tucker expressed deep gratitude to Connacht’s management, players, and fans, calling his tenure there “one of the biggest honours” of his life. He added that his family would remain proud supporters of Connacht even after his departure.

“It has been one of the biggest honours in both mine and my family’s life to coach under the Connacht crest. I am so incredibly thankful for all the experiences and lifelong friends I have made.

"My wife Deirdre, sons Colm and Charlie and daughter Evie are proud Connacht supporters and we, as a family, have enjoyed many a special night in the Dexcom.

"We will continue to watch and support Connacht rugby next season and it will always have a special place in my heart.

"There is no better place than a full Dexcom stadium with incredible support of the wonderful Connacht people, I’ll cherish those memories.

"Connacht have an exciting future on and off the field and I look forward to continuing to help drive the province forward over the course of this season under Stuart (Lancaster)".