THE IRFU has confirmed that forwards coach and former international Paul O'Connell is to take over as next interim head coach of Ireland for the summer Tests against Georgia and Portugal.
He replaces Simon Easterby, who was in charge during the Six Nations Championship — which saw Ireland finish a disappointing third.
There is a vacancy at the top as Andy Farrell is on sabbatical while he takes charge of the British and Irish Lions for their Australia tour.
But O’Connell’s promotion is not at the expense of Easterby, and is not linked to the disappointing Six Nations campaign.
Head coach Andy Farrell had earlier announced that Easterby, along with scrum coach John Fogarty and attack coach Andrew Goodman, would join him for the summer series against Australia.
"Simon’s appointment means that an opportunity arises for a new interim head coach for the two-match summer tour to Georgia and Portugal, and I’m delighted that Paul O’Connell will assume the role for this tour," IRFU performance director David Humphreys, and former Irish international No. 10, told RTÉ.
Georgia and Portugal are emerging forces in international rugby. Georgia, ranked around 13th globally, is known for its powerful scrum and dominant forward play. Portugal, ranked near 16th, impressed at the 2023 Rugby World Cup with fast-paced, skilful backline play, including a historic win over Fiji. Both are growing forces in European rugby.
Fixtures:
Georgia vs. Ireland: Saturday, 5 July 2025.
Portugal vs. Ireland: Saturday, 12 July 2025.
See More: British And Irish Lions, Easterby, O'Connell, Rugby
