Paul O'Connell to lead Ireland coaching in July Test series

The IRFU has officially confirmed the coaching group for Ireland’s upcoming July Test series against Georgia and Portugal.

The two-Test European tour will see former Ireland lock and captain Paul O’Connell step in as interim head coach, marking a significant milestone in his growing coaching career.

O’Connell, widely regarded as one of Ireland’s most accomplished internationals, has served as Ireland’s forwards coach since January 2021.

During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in guiding the team to consecutive Six Nations titles, including a Grand Slam victory in 2023, as well as three Triple Crowns. He has also contributed to the development of young talent through two successful Emerging Ireland tours to South Africa.

Joining O’Connell on the tour are Denis Leamy, Mike Prendergast, and Colm "Cullie" Tucker. All three coaches will link up with the national squad following the conclusion of their provincial rugby duties.

The squad for the July tour will be announced in mid-June, with broadcast details to be released at a later date. The matches, set in Tbilisi and Lisbon, are expected to challenge the squad with new opposition and unfamiliar conditions.

“I am honoured to accept the interim position of Head Coach for the forthcoming tour to Georgia and Portugal and it promises to be an important series of matches played against unfamiliar opponents in testing conditions.

With a busy schedule of international rugby this summer, these two Tests will provide us with further opportunities to assess and develop the competition levels within the squad.

"I am excited to work with a coaching team who I know well individually and are hugely motivated to deliver success to Ireland and look forward to putting our plans in place over the coming weeks.”

IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys welcomed O’Connell’s appointment, highlighting the importance of continuity and development within Irish coaching ranks.

“We’re delighted that Paul has accepted this role and believe that his elevation ensures continuity within the coaching team".

He will be assisted by Denis [Leamy], Mike [Prendergast] and Cullie [Tucker] who have all been in Ireland camp at different points over the last number of months.