Leo Cullen has confirmed he will step down as Leinster Rugby head coach at the end of next season, bringing to a close a tenure that will span 12 years in charge of the province.
The former Leinster captain has overseen one of the most successful periods in the club's history, guiding the side to multiple trophies, including a sixth United Rugby Championship title secured with victory in last Friday's final. Cullen also led Leinster to European Champions Cup glory in 2018, although the province has fallen short in subsequent finals, most recently losing to Bordeaux Bègles in May.
Cullen will remain in the role until the conclusion of his current contract in 2027, while Leinster Rugby and the IRFU begin the search for his successor.
“By the end of next season, I will have been in my current job for 12 years. It’ll also be 32 years since I first represented Leinster as a Schools player, so I think the timing will be right for me to move on to a new challenge,” Cullen said.
“I’m committed to Leinster up until the end of next season and I intend to honour my contract, as I always have done.”
Leinster Rugby CEO Shane Nolan praised Cullen's contribution to the province.
“Leo has been a great player, coach and leader for Leinster and will always be held in the highest regard by anyone fortunate enough to work with him,” Nolan said.
“We have begun the process to recruit our new head coach and will work to ensure we secure the best possible candidate to continue the success of Leinster Rugby.”
