La Rochelle Coach Ronan O’Gara Open to International Future

La Rochelle coach Ronan O’Gara has expressed a strong desire to test himself in international rugby but remains cautious about taking over a Wales team that has suffered 12 consecutive losses. The 47-year-old, who guided La Rochelle to back-to-back Champions Cup victories in 2022 and 2023 previously worked as an assistant coach at Racing 92 and New Zealand’s Crusaders. O’Gara, who aims to be the best coach possible, stated he would eagerly accept international roles.

“There are Test jobs I would bite people’s hands off for,” he said, though he clarified he wasn’t considering taking over from under-pressure Wales coach Warren Gatland, whose future with the Welsh Rugby Union is uncertain. While O’Gara expressed his admiration for the job, he preferred positions with Ireland, England or France, rather than Wales. O’Gara had previously removed himself from consideration for the England job in 2022, opting to sign a five-year contract extension with La Rochelle that runs until 2027.

This may allow him the opportunity to move into international coaching after the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Although La Rochelle’s bid for a third consecutive European title ended in a quarter-final loss to Leinster last season, O’Gara remains focused on securing the club’s first Top 14 crown. La Rochelle has made a slow start to the current season, sitting in sixth place in the standings.

O’Gara is known for his demanding coaching style, emphasizing high standards for his players. Reflecting on his own career, he shared his desire to pass on the emotional rewards of the game to his players, having enjoyed a decorated playing career that included two European titles with Munster and a Grand Slam with Ireland.