Gatland confirmed as Lions coach

Warren Gatland has been re-appointed British and Irish Lions coach ahead of the tour to New Zealand next year. The backroom staff will be announced on dec 7th.

Gatland, who takes the role up with immediate effect, became the first coach in 16 years to win a series back in 2013 after the 2-1 series defeat of Australia and will lead the Lions once more, this time against his own country.

The Wales boss had been widely expected to be named head coach after Joe Schmidt and England boss Eddie Jones ruled themselves out to focus on their national teams.

The Lions travel to New Zealand at the end of May and are aiming to become just the 2nd side to win a test series against the world's number 1 side.

The former Ireland boss will manage the Lions in 10 games, which includes three tests against the All Blacks, a game against the Maori All Blacks and matches against each of New Zealand's five Super Rugby franchises.

Gatland has expressed concerns about how tough the tour is schedule wise, speaking before the 6 Nations launch back in January.

"It's a really tough tour. I'm not saying the Lions can't win, it's just a tough schedule," Gatland said.

"It's the hardest place in the world to go and play, from a travel and organisation perspective as well as the rugby perspective.

"It's not un-winnable, but it's a very, very tough schedule."