Noel McNamara will take over as head coach of Leinster Rugby on July 1, 2027, succeeding Leo Cullen at the conclusion of the 2026/27 campaign. The appointment brings the former academy manager back to the province following a successful spell abroad.
McNamara Leaves Bordeaux for Dublin
McNamara currently serves as the attack coach for Union Bourdeaux-Begles, a side that defeated Leinster 41-19 in the Investec Champions Cup final in Bilbao. During his time in France, he helped Bordeaux win consecutive Champions Cups.
It's official. Noel McNamara will succeed Leo Cullen ahead of the 2027/28 season. 📰 Read the full story here 👉 https://t.co/vSvAhLJXmd pic.twitter.com/6zB1KFmKET
He signed a contract extension with Bordeaux in May running until 2029. Leinster are understood to have secured his release to bring him back to Dublin.
Reflecting on his upcoming appointment, McNamara said in a statement released by the province: I am delighted that I am returning to Leinster Rugby as head coach in 2027,
adding, This is one of the most prestigious roles in world rugby and it is an honour to be given this responsibility.
The incoming coach also expressed gratitude toward his current employers, noting his appreciation for UBB alongside president Laurent Marti and head coach Yannick Bru for supporting him in taking on the position. He emphasized that his primary focus remains on a very exciting season ahead with UBB before completing his move back to Leinster next summer.
Clare Man Returns Through Pathway
The 43-year-old coach from County Clare has a deep-rooted history in Irish rugby development. His early pathway also included working with schools representative teams, youth sides, Leinster under-19s, and Leinster under-20s.
Leadership Comments on the Selection
Leinster chief executive Shane Nolan noted that McNamara quickly established himself as the frontrunner. Noel has a long association with the club and emerged as our preferred candidate very early in the process,
Nolan stated. His transition into the role will be seamless and we look forward to welcoming him here next July after this season reaches its conclusion.
IRFU performance director David Humphreys also welcomed the appointment, highlighting the incoming coach’s background in the national pathway. Noel brings a wealth of coaching experience, strong leadership qualities and a proven track record of developing players and coaching successful teams,
Humphreys said.
Leinster have confirmed the appointment of Noel McNamara as head coach to succeed Leo Cullen when he departs his role at the conclusion of the 2026/27 seasonhttps://t.co/oY4D2lt3ln #RTERugby
He has a deep understanding of Irish rugby. I’m looking forward to working with him to ensure Leinster’s continued success, while supporting the development of players for the Ireland national team,
Humphreys added.
The recruitment process was driven by key personnel. These included Leinster CEO Shane Nolan. Chief operating officer Guy Easterby also took part. Frank Doherty served as chairman of the Professional Game Board. They operated with input and approval from David Humphreys.
Leinster confirm appointment of Noel McNamara to succeed Leo Cullen when he departs at the end of season https://t.co/kHkkCZoXcK
Other figures linked to the vacancy included Felipe Contepomi. The timing of Leinster’s recruitment process proved an obstacle.
Leinster confirm Noel McNamara appointment as Leo Cullen's successor https://t.co/SEMWs7vrO1