Farrell is set to manage Ireland’s autumn fixtures against New Zealand, Argentina, Fiji, and Australia in Dublin before temporarily leaving to lead the Lions on their 2025 tour of Australia.

From December 1st, Easterby, the current defence coach, will take over and guide Ireland through the 2025 Guinness Six Nations and an upcoming summer tour, the details of which have yet to be finalized.

“It’s a huge honour to be asked to lead the Ireland team, and I’m thrilled to accept,” the 49-year-old said to the Irish Rugby Football Union website.

“This is the pinnacle of my coaching career so far, and I’m excited to work with the talented backroom team and players while Andy is with the Lions.”



Easterby, who joined the Ireland coaching staff in 2014, will also manage the Emerging Ireland squad on their upcoming tour of South Africa, a role he previously held in 2022.

Reflecting on his time with the national team, he added, “I’ve really enjoyed being part of the men’s national journey over the past decade, and I believe there are brighter days ahead as we prepare for some important months.”

“There’s a lot to focus on before December, and we’re eager to give the next generation of Irish players a platform to shine against tough international competition in South Africa, followed by the four Autumn Nations Series matches at Aviva Stadium.”

Since taking over from Joe Schmidt after the 2019 World Cup, Farrell has led Ireland to consecutive Six Nations titles and victories over the top teams in world rugby, along with a spell at the top of the world rankings.

Farrell’s Lions team will face Joe Schmidt’s Australia in three tests: July 19th in Brisbane, July 26th in Melbourne, and August 2nd in Sydney.

David Humphreys, the IRFU performance director, expressed his support for Easterby’s promotion, saying: “I’m delighted to confirm Simon’s role later this year, which reflects his growth and stature as a coach in the Ireland set-up over the past decade.

“As head coach for the Emerging Ireland tour in 2022, he had a key role in helping several players progress to the senior squad.”

“We hope Simon and his coaching team will achieve more success during the upcoming Emerging Ireland tour and in the months ahead.”