Andy Farrell addresses British and Irish Lions coaching future ahead of 2029 All Blacks series
British and Irish Lions head coach Andy Farrell watches his team warm-up ahead of Test Three
British and Irish Lions head coach Andy Farrell has not ruled out the possibility of leading the famous touring side again in 2029.
The current Ireland boss has led the Lions to just their third victorious tour in the professional era, claiming a 2-1 series win over the Wallabies.
‘I love everything the Lions is about’
Farrell already has a stellar history with the Lions, serving as an assistant coach during the victorious 2013 series and later returning in 2017, and he can now add this 2025 series win to that list now as well.
This series win has also now seemingly pushed him to the top of the pecking order ahead of the 2029 tour to New Zealand, and the Wigan-native has left the door ajar for a possible return in four years time.
“Everyone knows what I think about this concept,” Farrell said after his side’s 22-12 defeat to Australia in Test Three of the series.
“I love everything that the Lions is about and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the last eight weeks.”
“There are always ups and downs, but the inner circle is a special place to be.”
While he was hesitant to confirm his full interest, he later added: “Read into that (his comments) what you will, but there’s a long time between drinks, isn’t there?”
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The Lions will next tour New Zealand in 2029, where they face the All Blacks for the first time since the drawn 2017 series.
While there might already be talk of what lies in his future four years down the line, for now, Farrell is still determined to enjoy the success of this tour.
“On reflection, we can be unbelievably proud,” he said.
“The legacy for us is in the changing room. The togetherness, it’s been an absolute delight. We’ve played some outstanding rugby and that’s accumulated into a performance that last week ended up being a moment that’ll stay with us forever.
“It’s been the time of our lives. I know it sounds a bit dramatic, but it’s the truth. We got to create a special memory together. I’m unbelievably proud to be associated with this group.”
With his Lions duties now complete, Farrell will once again don the Ireland tracksuit ahead of the Autumn Nations Series.
He has already enjoyed a stellar coaching career on the Emerald Isle since taking up the post in 2020, notably leading them to an away series win in New Zealand and back-to-back Six Nations titles between 2023 and 2024.
