David Humphreys to succeed David Nucifora as IRFU performance director

David Humphreys has been confirmed as the new performance director of the IRFU, replacing David Nucifora who will step down next year.

The former Ireland out-half will link up with the IRFU in March of 2024 and will work alongside Nucifora in the role until the summer, with the outgoing director leaving Irish rugby following the Paris Olympic Games.

Humphreys, who won 72 caps for Ireland in his playing career, has previously served as director of rugby for both his native Ulster and Gloucester, and currently works as director of performance operations with the England and Wales Cricket Board.

"In David Humphreys we know we have found someone who believes passionately in Irish Rugby and has the expertise, skills, and desire to keep us competitive on the world stage," IRFU CEO Kevin Potts said.

"Our search took us globally and ultimately David was the stand-out candidate.

"David's journey from a schools player to representing his province and then to the national game ideally places him to understand the needs of the player. His local knowledge and 30 years' experience of elite rugby and immersion in high performance, previously with Cricket Ireland's High Performance Committee and now his current role with the England & Wales Cricket Board, will bring about enormous benefits and we are excited for the next stage in our evolution."

Nucifora's exit has been planned for some time, with the Australian confirming in October 2022 that a succession plan was being put in place for his departure.

The former Brumbies coach will leave Irish rugby after 10 years in which he has overseen three men's Six Nations titles, one women's Six Nations title and the growth of the Irish Rugby Sevens programme, with both the men's and women's teams