La Rochelle lock in O'Gara on long-term contract

La Rochelle have succeeded in retaining the coaching services of former Ireland flyhalf Ronan O’Gara on a long-term contract which will see him at the helm of the club until 2027.

O’Gara first joined La Rochelle in 2019 and, earlier this year, coached them to their maiden Heineken Champions Cup title.

There has hitherto been speculation that he was linked to the England job, but this recent development has, of course, dispelled such rumours.

“My family and I feel very good here. Work-life balance is very important to me,” he said in a club statement.

“Gradually, we are changing our status and I’m convinced this is only the beginning. And then the fans here are amazing… all of this made my decision easy.”