Ronan O’Gara has expressed his interest in pursuing a prominent international coaching role in the near future. While his current contract with La Rochelle extends until 2027, the coach has made it clear that he would consider positions with Ireland, England, or France if opportunities arise. However, he has ruled out interest in coaching Wales, should their head coaching position become available.
O’Gara, a former fly-half who earned 128 caps for Ireland and also represented the British & Irish Lions, has gained recognition as one of the leading coaching talents of his era. Having guided La Rochelle to consecutive Champions Cup victories in 2022 and 2023, he has set his sights on transitioning to the international stage. Reflecting on his ambitions, O’Gara noted that excelling at the club level often creates opportunities for Test roles, emphasizing the importance of constantly striving to be the best.
When asked about potentially stepping into a coaching role for Wales, O’Gara indicated it was not a priority. Instead, he highlighted his interest in leading teams like Ireland, England, or France. This preference aligns with his aspirations to operate at the highest levels of the sport. O’Gara’s proven track record, coupled with his passion for rugby, positions him as a strong candidate for future international roles.
The 47-year-old has a history of achieving success through high standards and hard work. During his tenure with La Rochelle, he has been perceived as a demanding coach, driven by his desire to help players unlock their potential. He attributes his approach to the transformative influence of working with Scott Robertson during his time at the Crusaders. O’Gara described this period as instrumental in shaping his coaching philosophy, which centers on maximizing the possibilities in players and teams.
Despite his achievements in European competitions, O’Gara acknowledged the challenges of the Top 14 league, where La Rochelle has struggled to achieve consistency this season. He described the French domestic league as a “dog fight,” with every game presenting significant challenges. While some critics suggest he excels in European competitions but struggles domestically, O’Gara dismissed this view as overly simplistic. Instead, he emphasized the demanding nature of the league and the complexities of maintaining high performance across a grueling 26-game season.
Winning the French domestic title remains a significant objective for La Rochelle, which has yet to claim a Bouclier de Brennus. O’Gara noted the allure of this achievement for the club, describing it as a substantial motivational factor. Despite their inconsistent performances, he expressed confidence in the team’s potential. According to O’Gara, improving their ability to deliver sustained high-level play during matches is key to achieving greater success.
The coach’s dedication to fostering talent is evident in his approach to managing different player groups. While some players are self-motivated and require minimal intervention, O’Gara sees particular value in mentoring those who may be struggling to secure consistent game time or national team selection. This commitment to player development is central to his coaching ethos and fuels his daily efforts.
Looking ahead, O’Gara remains focused on immediate goals with La Rochelle, including the ongoing Champions Cup campaign and the pursuit of domestic success. Despite the challenges of balancing these ambitions, he remains driven by the emotional rewards rugby offers, both for players and coaches. For O’Gara, the prospect of contributing to the game at an international level represents the next logical step in a career defined by excellence and a relentless pursuit of growth.
