Noel McNamara to succeed Leo Cullen at Leinster
Leinster appoint Noel McNamara as head coach from July 2027, replacing Leo Cullen (in picture) after his successful tenure with the Irish province.
©PA
Leinster Rugby have confirmed the appointment of Noel McNamara as their next head coach, with the Irishman set to succeed Leo Cullen at the end of the 2026/27 season.
McNamara will join the United Rugby Championship side from French Top 14 club Bordeaux-Bègles, where he currently serves as attack coach.
Noel McNamara to Replace Leo Cullen at Leinster
Cullen, 48, announced on June 22 that he would step down at the conclusion of the 2026/27 season, ending a 12-year tenure as Leinster head coach.
The former Ireland international has led the province since 2015, overseeing six league titles and the 2018 European Champions Cup triumph.
McNamara will return to a familiar environment, having previously worked with Leinster between 2016 and 2021 in several positions, including academy manager and Leinster A head coach.
Noel McNamara Brings Bordeaux Champions Cup Experience
McNamara helped Bordeaux-Bègles secure consecutive European Champions Cup titles in 2025 and 2026.
The 43-year-old also guided Ireland Under-20s to a Six Nations Grand Slam in 2019 before spending two years coaching at the Sharks in South Africa.
Although McNamara had previously extended his Bordeaux contract until 2029, the French club has agreed to release him at the conclusion of the 2026/27 season, allowing him to take charge of Leinster on July 1, 2027.
Leinster and IRFU Welcome McNamara Appointment
McNamara described his appointment as an honour, acknowledging the significance of taking charge of Leinster while confirming his commitment to Bordeaux for the remainder of the season.
"This is one of the most prestigious roles in world rugby and it is an honour to be given this responsibility," said McNamara.
Leinster chief executive Shane Nolan said McNamara emerged as the club's preferred candidate early in the recruitment process, highlighting his previous association with the province.
"Noel has a long association with the club and emerged as our preferred candidate very early in the process. His transition into the role will be seamless."
