Andy Farrell has suggested he would be interested in leading the British & Irish Lions again for their 2029 tour of New Zealand, after overseeing a series victory over Australia. The Ireland head coach, who guided the Lions to their first series win since 2013, said he had thoroughly enjoyed the campaign and hinted he could return to the role.
Speaking after the Lions’ 22-12 defeat in the third Test in Sydney, which prevented a series whitewash, Farrell said: “Everyone knows what I think about this concept. I love everything that the Lions is about and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the last eight weeks.” When asked if he would be keen to coach the Lions again, he replied: “Read into that what you want.”
Farrell will now return to his duties with Ireland, but he paid tribute to the players and staff involved in what he called an “unbelievably special” series victory. He conceded the final match had ended on a “frustrating” note, but insisted Australia fully deserved their win. “The best team won on the night,” he said.
The playing squad are already planning a reunion in Australia in 2037, with player of the series Tadhg Beirne saying: “We have said we will be having a reunion here in 12 years’ time. We are going to start a kitty and make sure we are all back here to celebrate this series win.” Dan Sheehan, who captained the Lions after Maro Itoje failed a head injury assessment, expressed disappointment, saying he was “gutting” that the tour ended without a 3-0 sweep.
The match was delayed for 38 minutes in the second half due to lightning storms. Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt felt his side responded better to the hiatus, but Farrell brushed aside suggestions the Lions had missed a trick, noting they had been warned of the weather and had a plan.
