Joe El-Abd to leave England for Clermont after 2027 World Cup

Joe El-Abd will leave England’s coaching staff after the 2027 Rugby World Cup to become Clermont’s head coach.

The French club have confirmed the 46-year-old’s appointment as part of a restructure, with Christophe Urios moving into a strategic role leading their OneASM project.

El-Abd will remain with Steve Borthwick’s England team through next year’s tournament in Australia before returning to club rugby.

Joe El-Abd commits to England’s World Cup campaign

In an England Rugby statement carried by Ultimate Rugby, El-Abd said his immediate priority remained the national team.

“There is a huge amount that I still want to achieve with England and my focus between now and the World Cup won’t change.”

He also explained that France remained home to his young family after years spent playing and coaching there.

Borthwick praised El-Abd’s contribution and backed him to remain fully committed throughout his remaining time with England.

El-Abd joined the national set-up in 2024, initially as defence coach, before moving into a role working with the forwards.

Clermont confirm coaching changes

Clermont’s announcement states that El-Abd will arrive after the World Cup and have time beforehand to assemble his coaching team.

Club president Jean-Claude Pats said the appointment would bring fresh ideas and expertise as Clermont seek to compete consistently towards the top of French rugby.

Urios will remain involved, overseeing the wider club project and helping manage the transition.