The Lions have appointed Johnny Sexton as an assistant coach for the 2025 Qatar Airways British & Irish Lions Series. Sexton played 14 times in the famous red shirt, across two tours, during a glittering career for Ireland, Leinster, and Racing 92. The former Ireland fly-half started all three Tests against the Wallabies in 2013 and went on to face the All Blacks as many times in 2017. When the summer tour to Australia ends, Sexton will take up a full-time coaching position with the Ireland rugby team, as well as working with men’s and women’s senior and age-grade teams. Commenting on the announcement, Sexton said: “I am hugely excited to continue the next chapter in my coaching journey with The British and Irish Lions and I would like to thank Andy for this incredible opportunity. “It promises to be an exciting tour to Australia and I know from experience the challenges that await us. “Playing for the Lions was a huge ambition of mine during my playing career and my memories of those Tours to Australia and New Zealand will stay with me forever.” Lions head coach Andy Farrell said: “I coached Johnny for the very first time during the 2013 Lions Tour to Australia and the love that he had for The British and Irish Lions was reflected in how he operated on a daily basis. “His influence on that Lions team and that Series win, our only win in the last 24 years, should not be underestimated. “His fight and his dedication as a player is something that he will bring to this Lions Tour and I know that the players will relish his experience and expertise alongside all of our assistant coaches.” Lions chief executive Ben Calveley said: “The 2025 Qatar Airways British and Irish Lions Series is almost upon us and it is fantastic to confirm Johnny Sexton as one of Andy Farrell’s assistant coaches for the Tour. “Each of the coaches has been chosen to bring their expertise as we look to achieve a Series victory in Australia and we know Johnny will be a key part of that team.”