Rugby World Cup 2019: Warren Gatland reportedly chased for France coaching job

Welsh coach Warren Gatland. Photo credit: Reuters

New Zealand's Warren Gatland has emerged as a candidate to replace Jacques Brunel as coach of the French national team, according to reports.

Gatland will leave his Wales post later this year, ending a reign highlighted by a Six Nations-record third clean sweep and a 2011 World Cup semi-final.

The 55-year-old has already been strongly linked with the Chiefs coaching role, while UK reports suggest he may replace Eddie Jones as England coach.

But now a move to France is an option.

French newspaper L'Equipe claims officials have contacted Gatland, as French Rugby president Bernard Laporte has permission to appoint a non-Frenchman as the coach of Les Bleus

The report adds that Crusaders assistant coach Ronan O'Gara may also join Gatland in their national set-up.

France have struggled under current coach Brunel, including three losses against the All Blacks in New Zealand last year and a shock defeat to Fiji in Paris.

After winning the Six Nations Grand Slam, Wales have risen to second in the World Rugby rankings this week.

Newshub. 

Contact Newshub with your story tips:
news@newshub.co.nz