Farrell, who has been Ireland's Head Coach since 2019, will begin his role at the end of 2024, with his coaching team set to be announced. He has led Ireland to consecutive Triple Crowns in the past two years' Six Nations.

This will be the 48 year old's third involvement in a Lions Tour as a coach, having been part of Warren Gatland's set up for the 2013 series against Australia and 2017's against New Zealand.

Ben Calveley, British & Irish Lions CEO, said: “We are delighted to announce Andy Farrell as Head Coach of The British & Irish Lions for the Tour to Australia in 2025.

“Andy is without question one of the best coaches in the world and knows what it takes to win a Series in Australia given his involvement in the Series win in 2013. His achievements with Ireland in recent years have been exceptional and his coaching experience at test-match level with Ireland, England and The British & Irish Lions make him an outstanding candidate for this role.

“Andy is an excellent appointment for us and one which we believe will excite players and fans alike. It is clear to see that Andy has built a very strong connection between the Irish team and its fans and we are relishing a similarly strong connection being created with Lions fans in 2025. We firmly believe his appointment puts us in a great position to achieve success on the field and I’m looking forward to working alongside him as we build towards the Tour.

“I’d also like to offer our sincere gratitude to the Irish Rugby Football Union and its CEO Kevin Potts for their support in facilitating Andy coming on board as Head Coach.”

Andy Farrell, British & Irish Lions Head Coach said: “It is a tremendous honour and a privilege to be named Head Coach of The British & Irish Lions. I know how special Lions Tours are having been involved in the 2013 and 2017 Tours, so I am delighted to get the chance to lead the team in 2025.”

“There is a wealth of talent across Britain and Ireland, and I am looking forward to building a team that can deliver the ultimate goal of success in Australia. I also want to thank the Irish Rugby Football Union for their support in allowing me to accept this prestigious opportunity.”

“The British & Irish Lions fan base is really special, uniting supporters from England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales and beyond. Mobilising that Sea of Red by creating a team that our fans can connect with and be proud of will be a key priority for me and will be crucial to our success.”