England confirm coaching change after Rugby World Cup 2027

England assistant coach Joe El-Abd will return to club coaching in France following next year’s World Cup, the RFU have confirmed.

El-Abd has been appointed head coach of ASM Clermont Auvergne, with Christophe Urios given a broader remit as head of sport at the French Top 14 club.

“I’m incredibly proud of my time with England since joining in 2024 and I’m thoroughly enjoying being part of this set-up,” said El-Abd.

“There is a huge amount that I still want to achieve with England and my focus between now and the World Cup won’t change.

“After that, the opportunity to return to France is one I’m excited about. A large part of my life has been spent playing and coaching in France, and it’s a country that is home to me and my young family.

“But there is plenty of work to do before then. I’m fully committed to giving everything I can to help England achieve success, starting with our Nations Championship games at Allianz Stadium next month.”

The former Bristol flanker also had spells as a player at Toulon and then Oyonnax, where he started his coaching career. He moved on to Castres in 2015 and spent four years there, winning the Top 14, before returning to Oyonnax for a second spell.

He has held various roles with England under head coach Steve Borthwick, an old university friend.

Commenting on El-Abd’s decision, Borthwick said: “Joe is an outstanding coach and continues to make a significant contribution to both the team and the environment. His knowledge of the game and the quality of his coaching, have made him a hugely valuable member of our coaching team.

“I know he will continue to give everything to the team and will be working as hard as ever to help us achieve success over the next 12 months. Thereafter, I am sure he will go on to great success back in France.”