Leo Cullen has confirmed he will leave Leinster at the end of next season, with the province already beginning its search for a successor after 11 years under his stewardship.
Cullen and his coaching staff will remain in place through to June 2027, with preparations for the upcoming campaign already well advanced. The announcement came on the back of Leinster's URC final victory over the Bulls at Croke Park.
The timing is significant: Jacques Nienaber's contract extension also runs until the end of the 2026-27 season, meaning both men depart simultaneously. That alignment is sharpening speculation around Nienaber's next move, with no indication yet from either party as to his plans beyond Leinster.
Cullen cited the natural conclusion of a long tenure as his reason for moving on. "By the end of next season, in 2027, I will have been in my current job for 12 years," he said. "I think the timing will be right for me to move on to a new challenge." He also noted that the transition period ahead — including Leinster's return to Laya Arena and expected player movement — made it sensible to confirm the departure now and provide continuity heading into the summer.
CEO Shane Nolan confirmed the recruitment process for Cullen's replacement has begun, acknowledging his seven trophies across 11 seasons, with the recent URC Grand Final win the latest addition to that haul.
Cullen's tenure has not been without criticism. Leinster's Champions Cup final defeat to Bordeaux-Bègles this season was their fourth final loss in five years.