Former Ireland and Lions fly-half Ronan O'Gara has been named as the new head coach of 2019 European Challenge Cup finalists La Rochelle.
O'Gara, who is the all-time leading European Champions Cup points scorer with 1365, leaves his role as Crusaders assistant coach to move to the Top 14 side and has also coached in France with Racing 92.
La Rochelle will compete in the Heineken Champions Cup next season after finishing fifth in the Top 14.
La Rochelle director of rugby Jono Gibbes told a press conference: "Ronan O'Gara joins the staff as head coach. He knows the Top 14 well and has plenty of experience so we are very happy to have him with us next season.
"He will bring a high level of skill to the coaching staff and I can't wait to start the season with him alongside Gregory Patat and Akvsenti Giorgadze."
