Jacques Nienaber will step down as South Africa’s coach after the Rugby World Cup to take up a role at Irish province Leinster.
Nienaber has been coach of the world champion Springboks since 2020, having previously had several roles within the South African rugby structures including as an assistant coach for the national team at the 2011 and 2019 World Cups.
“The last few years have been the highlight of my coaching career and it’s with a heavy heart that I’m finishing up my time with the Springboks and leaving the country for personal reasons,” Nienaber said.
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“The decision is made and that’s firmly behind me now. My sole focus is on seeing the Springboks defend the Rugby World Cup title this year. I will continue to channel all my energy into ensuring that we leave no stone unturned to achieve that.”
SA Rugby chief executive Rian Oberholzer said the organisation will confirm a successor to Nienaber “in due course.”
The World Cup takes place in France starting in September.
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Leinster is one of Europe’s top rugby teams.
Nienaber will replace current senior coach Stuart Lancaster, who is leaving at the end of the season to join Racing 92 in France.
He will work under Leinster head coach Leo Cullen.
“Jacques is a world class coach with a winning track record at the very highest level of the game, and we are all looking forward to learning from him over the coming seasons.”
Former Ireland hooker Bernard Jackman applauded the move.
“Massive statement of intent by Leinster bring in Jacques Nienaber post World Cup,” Jackman said.
“New CEO has hit the ground running.”
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