Overview
- Multiple French outlets report that Shaun Edwards is likely to be removed from his role as France defence coach, though the French Rugby Federation has not officially confirmed the move.
- Gérald Bastide, who has worked with the France women’s team and previously served as a France defence coach, is named in reports as the short‑term replacement for upcoming fixtures including the July internationals.
- Sources say Edwards was absent from recent coaching meetings in Narbonne and Montpellier and remains under contract to France until 2028, creating potential contractual and staffing complications.
- Reports also name kicking coach Vlok Cilliers among those expected to leave and identify former centre Geoffrey Doumayrou as a leading candidate to take the defence role on a permanent basis.
- Edwards is widely regarded as one of rugby’s top defence coaches, and outlets note speculation that other unions could pursue him if he departs, while the changes are framed as Galthié’s response to conceding large point totals late in the Six Nations.