Geoff Parling is set to make a notable transition in his coaching career, moving from his role as assistant coach with the Wallabies to take up the head coach position at Leicester Tigers starting next season. Parling will remain with the Wallabies through their 2025 series against the British & Irish Lions before assuming his new role.

Parling, a former second-row player, has a rich history with Leicester Tigers, having played for the club from 2009 to 2015 and securing two Premiership titles during his tenure. His extensive playing career also includes stints with Newcastle Falcons, Exeter Chiefs, Munakata Sanix Blues, and Melbourne Rebels, along with 29 appearances for England and three Test caps on the 2013 Lions tour of Australia.

Starting his coaching career with the Melbourne Rebels, Parling joined the Wallabies in 2020 and became a permanent fixture under Joe Schmidt in 2024. Reflecting on his return to Leicester, Parling expressed his pride and excitement: "I was lucky enough to have some incredible moments in the Leicester Tigers jersey, made through hard work by good people, and so I am extremely proud to be coming back to lead the club."

He added, "There are not many opportunities that would make myself and my family think about leaving Australia, the place we've called home for the past seven years, but coming back to Leicester Tigers is one that we are really looking forward to."

Parling emphasized his focus on stability and building a strong foundation at Leicester: "I know the club is looking for stability, and I will be focused on building an environment with strong foundations, where people can see both what is needed and what it means to be a Tiger."

Rugby Australia's Director of High Performance, Peter Horne, acknowledged Parling's contributions: "Since arriving in Australia, Geoff has given his heart and soul to Australian Rugby and for that we are very grateful. We are obviously sad to see him go but we understand the opportunity presented to him by Leicester Tigers is a good one for his family and career."

The Wallabies look forward to working with Parling through the Lions series, and he will always be a friend of Australian Rugby. This transition marks a significant chapter in Parling's career, as he returns to a club where he has deep roots and a strong legacy.