Rugby coaching changes announced in France

Frédéric Charrier has announced he will depart ASM Clermont Auvergne in June 2027, ending a nearly twenty-year professional partnership with head coach Christophe Urios. The two have worked together since 2007 at Oyonnax, followed by stints at Castres, Bordeaux-Bègles, and Clermont. Charrier stated that while the separation is “not easy,” he feels the need to seek a new professional environment and encounter different working methods.

In separate news, Provence Rugby has extended the contract of rugby director Philippe Saint-André for two additional seasons, through 2029. Saint-André maintains a 69% win rate since joining the club, with 29 victories in 42 matches. The club aims to achieve promotion to the Top 14 following recent near-misses in the Pro D2 final and the access match.