Warren Gatland's reign as Irish coach has come to an end according to a statement released by the IRFU this afternoon. Eddie O'Sullivan, who has been assistant coach for the past two years, will take over from Gatland until the conclusion of the 2004 Six Nations Championship. Gatland had been involved in contract negations with the IRFU all this week but no agreement is believed to have been reached.
Gatland, who this year guided Ireland through its most successful championship season in 15 years, was looking to extend his contract up to and including the 2003 World Cup. The New Zealander's current contract would have seen him continue as Ireland boss until after the 2002 Six Nations Championship.
In a statement issued by the IRFU ahead of the press conference at 3pm this afternoon, Philip Browne, Chief Executive of the IRFU said: “Warren Gatland has made a significant contribution since his appointment as Irish team coach in 1998 and the IRFU wishes to record its appreciation of his efforts. Major investment has been made, and continues to be made, in the structures of Irish rugby with a view to further raising the performance levels of our team so that it consistently competes at the highest levels of world rugby."
"Following on-going and detailed reviews it was agreed that it is in the best interests of all concerned to end the contract with immediate effect. A major factor in the timing of this decision is the importance of having the new coach in place in the lead up to the forthcoming Six Nations Championship and ultimately to maximise preparations for the Rugby World Cup in 2003.”
Gatland himself said in the statement: "I want to thank the players and wish them all the best for the future. I look forward to fulfilling a new challenge in rugby."
Declan Kidney has been appointed as assistant but will carry on his current position with Munster until the completion of their Celtic League and European Cup commitments. Brian O’Brien will continue as Ireland team manager, also to the conclusion of the Six Nations championship 2004.
Filed by Sinéad Kissane
