He also coached the Ireland Under 20’s to a Grand Slam in 2019 before spending two years in Durban with the Sharks as their Attack and Backs Coach prior to joining Bordeaux.
Noel will remain in his position for the remainder of the 2026/27 season before taking up his new role with Leinster on July 1st 2027.
Speaking about the appointment of Noel McNamara, Leinster CEO, Shane Nolan said “We are delighted to welcome Noel McNamara as the new Head Coach of Leinster Rugby in 2027. Noel has a long association with the club and emerged as our preferred candidate very early in the process. His transition into the role will be seamless and we look forward to welcoming him here next July after this season reaches its conclusion.”
Leinster COO Guy Easterby said “Along with a number of key stakeholders we set out clear criteria when we began this process to try to ensure that we secured a Head Coach that combined a strong understanding of Leinster and Irish rugby with a track record of success. I believe that Noel is the right man to take on this responsibility from Leo and to build on the incredible job that he has done over the past 11 years as we continue to strive for excellence in everything we do. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank UBB President, Laurent Marti, and Head Coach, Yannick Bru, for their understanding and professionalism in dealing with this matter. I am also very grateful for the support of Shane Nolan, the Professional Games Board here in Leinster and IRFU Performance Director, David Humphreys throughout this process.”
IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys said “Noel brings a wealth of coaching experience, strong leadership qualities and a proven track record of developing players and coaching successful teams.
He has a deep understanding of Irish rugby and I’m looking forward to working with him to ensure Leinster’s continued success, while supporting the development of players for the Ireland national team.”
Incoming Leinster Rugby Head Coach Noel McNamara said “I am delighted that I am returning to Leinster Rugby as Head Coach in 2027. This is one of the most prestigious roles in world rugby and it is an honour to be given this responsibility.
I am very grateful to UBB and in particular Laurent Marti and Yannick Bru for supporting me in availing of this opportunity. We have a very exciting season ahead with UBB and I am fully focussed on that before moving back to Leinster next summer.”