Shaun Edwards' Possible Departure from France Raises Concerns for Rugby Nations
Shaun Edwards puts rugby's top nations on red alert with decorated defence coach set for surprise departure from France role

Image: Mail Online
Shaun Edwards, the esteemed defence coach for France, may leave his position a year before the World Cup, sparking interest from top rugby nations. His departure could lead to a significant reshaping of coaching roles, particularly in England, where he has been a long-time target.
- 01Shaun Edwards has been with France since 2020 and has won seven Six Nations titles and four Grand Slams.
- 02Reports suggest Edwards is likely to leave his role as assistant coach to Fabien Galthie, potentially replaced by Gerald Bastide.
- 03Despite being linked with the England rugby team, Edwards has never officially joined the RFU coaching staff.
- 04Current England head coach Steve Borthwick has a full defence team, leaving no immediate role for Edwards.
- 05Edwards' departure comes at a crucial time, just over a year before the next Rugby World Cup.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Shaun Edwards, the highly regarded defence coach for the French national rugby team, is reportedly set to leave his position, raising alarms among rugby's elite nations just over a year before the World Cup. Edwards, who has been with France since 2020, has an impressive record, including seven Six Nations titles and four Grand Slams during his coaching career with both France and Wales. His potential exit from the coaching staff of head coach Fabien Galthie could create a significant opportunity for other nations to recruit him. There have been longstanding links between Edwards and the England rugby team, although he has never officially taken up a role with the Rugby Football Union (RFU). Currently, England's head coach Steve Borthwick has a complete defence team, which diminishes the likelihood of Edwards joining the England setup. French media outlet L'Equipe has reported on Edwards' possible departure, indicating that Gerald Bastide may succeed him. This development could have substantial implications for the coaching landscape in rugby, particularly as teams prepare for the upcoming World Cup.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The potential departure of Edwards could lead to significant changes in coaching strategies for the French national team and influence recruitment in other nations, particularly England.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Which national rugby team should pursue Shaun Edwards if he leaves France?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.





