Munster Rugby have confirmed that forwards coach Alex Codling will leave the province this summer, a significant update in sports ireland coverage as the squad prepares for another demanding season. The experienced coach is heading to France for a new role in the Top 14 after two influential years with Munster.
Codling first came in as a consultant in November 2024 while also working with the Ireland Women set-up. His impact was felt quickly. Munster reached the quarter-finals of both the Investec Champions Cup and the URC, with their set-piece work and lineout detail among the clearest signs of his influence.
Munster confirm Alex Codling exit ahead of summer reset
The 52-year-old joined full-time last summer after helping Ireland Women reach the World Cup quarter-finals. Munster say he leaves with the best wishes of players, staff and supporters after building a strong reputation inside the camp.
Codling said the decision was difficult and thanked the Red Army for their backing, singling out the travelling support in La Rochelle as a standout memory. Head coach Clayton McMillan praised his energy, detail and connection with the squad, especially his work around the lineout. General manager Ian Costello also thanked him for his contribution across the past two seasons.
For Munster, this is more than a routine backroom change. In ireland rugby and wider rugby ireland circles, specialist coaching appointments can shape a pack’s identity, especially in breakdown work, maul accuracy and restart organisation. Codling’s departure now leaves a vacancy in a key technical role just as planning intensifies for pre-season.
- Munster confirmed Codling will leave this summer
- He is taking up a coaching opportunity in France’s Top 14
- He previously worked with Ireland Women as forwards coach
- Munster now face an important replacement decision
The next step in this sports ireland story is clear: attention turns to who Munster appoint next and how quickly that coach can bed into a squad with major ambitions in the URC and Europe.
