World Rugby Hall of Famer Sergio Parisse excited by 'extraordinary opportunity'

Italian rugby legend Sergio Parisse has spoken of his delight at being appointed to Gonzalo Quesada’s backroom team, from the start of July.

Parisse will join the Azzurri setup as an assistant coach specialising in the lineout, a role he currently fulfils with Toulon, where his stellar playing career ended in 2023.

The 42-year-old is the only Italian player to be inducted into World Rugby’s Hall of Fame, after winning 142 caps for his country, 93 as captain, and appearing at five Rugby World Cups.

“Returning to Italy and being able to contribute from within the FIR to the growth of the national team and the entire rugby movement in my country is an extraordinary opportunity,” Parisse said.

“I’m delighted to be able to do so alongside a coach I worked with during my years as a player at Stade Francais and for whom I have deep respect, Gonzalo Quesada.

“I’ll be joining a high-level staff and having the opportunity to serve a group of athletes with great potential and a strong work ethic.

“Today, thanks to the work done on player development, Italy boasts a depth and talent superior to that of my generation, and being able to fit into this environment as a coach is a fascinating opportunity.

“I thank Toulon for these years together and I’m determined to complete my commitment to the club until the end of the Top 14 season.

“At the same time, I’m grateful to the FIR, President Duodo, and the Technical Commissioner for their trust in entrusting me with this new role, which I approach with great humility and great love for the blue that has always been the compass of my playing career.”

Parisse and Quesada worked together at Stade Francais and Italy’s head coach believes the former No.8 will bring so much to the role.

“Sergio was a fantastic player, a role model for Italy and all the teams he played for. He was my captain at Stade Francais, and together we won a Bouclier de Brennus and a Challenge Cup,” Quesada said.

“I know his qualities as a man and a sportsman, and the level of commitment he puts into everything he does.

“I know he’s eager to contribute to our staff and the national team, and it’s wonderful that someone who meant so much to Italian rugby is returning to his home country: he’ll add his professionalism and experience to a staff that already boasts outstanding human and professional qualities.

“In the coming weeks, we’ll also finalise the position of the new scrum coach, so we can have a complete roster for the start of this summer’s Nations Championship.”