Advertisement
©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
Au Revoir

Cheika won't be staying on at Stade Francais

After failing to reach the playoffs for a second season in succession, Top 14 giants Stade Francais have opted not to renew Michael Cheika’s coaching contract.

FORMER LEINSTER COACH Michael Cheika will not remain on at Stade Francais next season.

The Australian, a Heineken Cup winner in 2008, has failed to significantly impact the French club’s form over the course of his two seasons in charge and departs Paris following a lacklustre seventh-place finish in the domestic league. He has already been linked with the vacant managerial position at Australian Super Rugby franchise, the Western Force.

A source affiliated with the club confirmed the departure in conversation with the AFP (via Planet Rugby):

“It was decided this morning (Monday) that Michael Cheika will no longer coach the professional team of Stade Francais next season.”

It was rumoured in advance of the decision that Cheika was no longer on speaking terms with a number of prominent players and Christophe  Laussucq, the club’s assistant coach.

Though one of the wealthiest clubs in European rugby, Stade has been beset by accusations of ill-discipline and complacency in recent seasons.

Read more on this story at PlanetRugby.com

15% ‘unaware of European Championships’

Off the record: sports stories you might have missed this weekend