BREAKING NEWS : Stuart Lancaster’s appointment as Connacht’s new head coach makes a big impression.

Connacht Rugby has made a significant move by appointing Stuart Lancaster as their new head coach on a two-year contract, effective from the 2025–26 season. Lancaster, formerly the head coach of England, Leinster, and Racing 92, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His tenure at Racing 92 ended in early 2025 following a series of disappointing results, including a poor run in the Top 14 and a failure to qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions Cup

Lancaster’s appointment is seen as a strategic move by Connacht and the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) to revitalize the team. He replaces Pete Wilkins, who resigned in April 2025. Lancaster’s coaching staff will include Colm Tucker focusing on scrum and contact, John Muldoon overseeing the maul and lineout, and Rod Seib as attack coach. This restructuring aims to strengthen Connacht’s performance in both the United Rugby Championship and the European Rugby Challenge Cup.

Lancaster expressed enthusiasm about joining Connacht, highlighting the club’s strong identity, the new High-Performance Centre, and the modernized Dexcom Stadium as key factors in his decision. He also emphasized the opportunity to develop young talent in a collaborative environment. His appointment coincides with Connacht’s 140th anniversary and the completion of stadium upgrades, setting the stage for a promising future under his leadership.