Sky Sports asks Andy Farrell after the 2-1 win over Australia on the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour if he would like to return as head coach for the 2029 tour to New Zealand; Farrell does not rule out the possibility, stressing his “love” for the Lions and his awareness of the meaning of the word.
Please use Chrome browser for better access to the video player.
British and Irish Lions head coach Andy Farrell has not ruled out returning to the role in New Zealand in 2029.
Outgoing British and Irish Lions head coach Andy Farrell has not ruled out the possibility of returning to manage New Zealand's touring team again in four years' time.
Despite suffering a third Test defeat against Australia in Sydney on Saturday, Farrell led the Lions to a 2-1 series win over the Wallabies this summer.
The current Ireland head coach, who served as the Lions' defence coach during the 2013 and 2017 tours of Australia and New Zealand, takes charge of the team for the first time this year but could be looking to emulate his Lions predecessor Warren Gatland, who coached the Lions on three successive tours in 2013, 2017 and 2021.
When asked about it on Saturday, Farrell stopped short of saying he didn't want to play the role again, but instead expressed his affection for the idea.
“I loved every minute of it, but it's been a long time, hasn't it?” Farrell told Sky Sports on the pitch in Sydney.
- Australia denies Lions series release after unexpected delay
- Jamie Roberts: 'The Lions experience changed my life – that's unique in sport'
- Gregan: To go from good to great you have to be ruthless – next step for Wallabies
- Sky Sports Digital in Australia: in partnership with Howden
Please use Chrome browser for better access to the video player.
Highlights from the third Test match between Australia and the British and Irish Lions in Sydney
“It was the best time of our lives. I know it sounds a little exaggerated, but it's true.
“These guys came together and we were able to create unforgettable memories. I am incredibly proud to be a part of this group.”
At the post-match press conference, Farrell echoed his response, expressing a similar sentiment: “Everyone knows how I feel about the concept. I think that says it all. I really like everything about the Lions.”
“I've really enjoyed the last eight weeks. There are always ups and downs, but the inner circle is a special place.”
When asked, “Yes?” Farrell replied, “Well, take it as you will, but four years is quite a long time between drinks.”
Please use Chrome browser for better access to the video player.
Despite the defeat, the British and Irish Lions celebrated a 2-1 series win against Australia to lift the trophy.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Farrell was upbeat about Saturday despite the defeat: “What was going to be a logistical nightmare went quite smoothly and that's all down to the hard work that went on behind the scenes.”
“We prepared for this for a long time, but it was also the best eight weeks of our lives.
“I'm looking forward to going into the locker room and saying what I need to say to this group.
I know we are disappointed, but we should be incredibly proud of what we have achieved as a team. Tours Lev
Sourse: skysports.com
