‘Thrilled’ Urios replaces ex-All Black Gibbes as Clermont coach

Christophe Urios stated Wednesday that he was “thrilled” to replace Jono Gibbes, the former New Zealand back-rower who was fired by him as Clermont’s two-time French Top 14 winner Clermont coach.

Gibbes (45), was fired on Monday. He had been with the club for less than two years and were in 10th place in league standings. The club has only one win in their last five competitions.

Bordeaux-Begles fired Urios, 57 after a disappointing start to the season that had led them to the semi finals during the previous two campaigns.

Urios stated on Twitter, “I’m thrilled that I announce my arrival as Clermont coach.”

He added, “I’m also delighted to join such a distinguished club.”

Castres’ former hooker, who led Castres to the 2018 Top 14 titles, has signed a contract at Clermont through 2025 with an optional additional year.

Jean-Michel Guillon, president of the club, released a statement saying that after having had fruitful discussions with both internal and external parties over the past days, they have all agreed that Christophe Urios is the best choice.

He added, “His vision of the gameplan for the club and his vision for it correspond completely with what we’re expecting.”

Urios will take charge of the Top 14 trip to Lyon on January 28th. Jared Payne, defence coach, will temporarily assume control of this weekend’s Champions Cup match at Stormers.

To keep their hopes alive for a place in the last 16 at 16, the three-time Champions Cup runners-up need to score at least one point in Cape Town.

Urios, who has a vineyard and is known in France for his hilarious media outbursts will then be welcomed by Castres on the 4th of February before returning to Bordeaux-Begles the second week later.

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