Cullen to leave Leinster at end of next season

Leo Cullen is to leave his role as Leinster head coach at the end of next season.

The former Ireland second row will depart after 12 years in the position with the Irish province when his contract concludes at the end of the 2026-27 campaign, a statement from Leinster confirmed on Monday.

The 48-year-old has led Leinster to six league titles during his tenure, the latest coming in the United Rugby Championship decider against the Bulls on Friday.

He also guided the province to a European Champions Cup success in 2018 but his side subsequently lost five finals in the competition, including four in the past five years.

Cullen and his coaching team "will continue their preparations for the upcoming season, which are already well advanced", the statement explained.

The search for his successor will begin straight away.

"Leinster Rugby, in collaboration with the IRFU, will immediately begin a formal recruitment process to ensure that the best possible candidate is secured for the position," the Leinster press release said.

Commenting on the news, Cullen said: "By the end of next season, in 2027, I will have been in my current job for 12 years.

"It'll also be 32 years since I first represented Leinster as a Schools player! So, I think the timing will be right for me to move on to a new challenge.

"I managed 10 years as a player on different Leinster teams before moving to Leicester in 2005 and then returning to Leinster in 2007 to go on to experience some of the most amazing days imaginable.

"As many of you will know, I'm committed to Leinster up until the end of next season, and I intend to honour my contract, as I always have done."

Leinster Rugby CEO, Shane Nolan paid tribute to Cullen.

"I would like to thank Leo for everything he has done as the Head Coach of Leinster Rugby, his achievements in the role speak for themselves, including winning seven trophies in 11 years culminating in a brilliant URC Grand Final win at Croke Park last Friday.

"Leo has been a great player, coach and leader for Leinster and will always be held in the highest regard by anyone that has ever been fortunate enough to work with him."