In a move that has sent shockwaves through Scottish rugby, national team head coach Gregor Townsend has taken on a controversial consultancy position with French Top 14 side Montpellier, mere weeks after putting pen to paper on a new contract with the Scottish Rugby Union.
The unexpected development comes as Townsend prepares to lead Scotland into their Autumn Nations Series campaign, creating an immediate conflict of interest debate within rugby circles.
Timing Raises Eyebrows
The 51-year-old coach, who recently extended his tenure with Scotland through to 2026, will now divide his attention between national duties and providing strategic advice to the French club. This dual arrangement begins immediately, despite the SRU having just committed to Townsend's long-term leadership of the national side.
Sources close to the situation reveal that Townsend's consultancy will involve periodic analysis and guidance for Montpellier, though the exact time commitment remains undisclosed. The arrangement has been approved by SRU chief executive Mark Dodson, but has already drawn criticism from former players and pundits.
Conflict of Interest Concerns
Former Scotland internationals have expressed unease about the setup, questioning how Townsend can maintain focus on Scotland's preparations while simultaneously advising a club side in a different league. The proximity to important international fixtures has particularly raised concerns about divided attention.
Montpellier, currently struggling in the Top 14, are understood to have sought Townsend's expertise to help revive their fortunes. The French club's director of rugby, Philippe Saint-André, previously worked with Townsend during their playing days at Gloucester.
SRU's Defence
The Scottish Rugby Union has moved quickly to defend the arrangement, insisting that Townsend's primary focus remains firmly on the national team. In an official statement, the SRU emphasised that the consultancy has been structured to avoid any clash with Townsend's Scotland responsibilities.
However, critics argue that the timing could hardly be worse, with Scotland facing a crucial period of international matches and the coaching staff needing undivided attention to build on recent improvements in performance.
The situation echoes similar controversies in international rugby where coaches have attempted to balance national duties with club commitments, often with mixed results. How this arrangement plays out could set an important precedent for future coaching contracts in the professional era.
