Head coach Bemand signs Ireland contract extension

Ireland head coach Scott Bemand has signed a contract extension that takes him through to the conclusion of the 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Appointed on a three-year deal in August 2023, Bemand led Ireland to the inaugural WXV3 title in Dubai later that year and successive third-place finishes in the Women’s Six Nations.

The former England attack coach also led Ireland to last year’s World Cup quarter-finals in England, where they squandered a 13-0 lead to lose 18-13 to France at Sandy Park.

“It is a great privilege to sign on for another Rugby World Cup cycle with the IRFU and reaffirm my commitment and belief in the squad and programme moving forward,” said Bemand, who also oversaw Ireland’s memorable WXV1 win over New Zealand in September 2024.

“We have made positive progress in recent years but we know there is more to come from our group and are excited to build on the foundations we have laid.”

Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) performance director David Humphreys praised Bemand’s the “tireless work, dedication and investment” Bemand has put into the role since taking over.

“In addition to the team’s on-field growth and evolution during Scott’s tenure, he has placed a huge emphasis on the development of young players and as we build towards 2029 Rugby World Cup in Australia, we’re excited to advance the squad’s depth, ambition and performance levels,” added Humphreys.