Italian legend Sergio Parisse joins Azzurri coaching staff

Parisse currently holds a similar position at Top 14 club Toulon, where the former Italy number eight and captain ended his playing career in 2023.

The coach renews his collaboration with head coach Gonzalo Quesada, with whom he partnered for two different periods of his playing career at Stade Francais. Parisse won the Top 14 title and the Challenge Cup under the Argentine coach, who has been in charge of Italy since 2024.

Silverware aside, Parisse's rugby credentials are outstanding. He boasts 142 international caps, five Rugby World Cups played between 2003 and 2019, and twelve seasons as captain of the Azzurri. He is also currently the only Italian rugby player inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame.

"Returning to Italy and being able to contribute from within the federation to the growth of the national team and the entire rugby movement in my country is an extraordinary opportunity," said the 43-year-old.

"Iâ™m happy to do so alongside a coach I worked with during my playing years at Stade Francais and whom I deeply respect, Gonzalo Quesada, joining a high-level staff and working with a group of players who have great potential and work ethic. Today, thanks to player development, Italy has greater depth and talent than my generation, and being able to join this environment as a coach is an exciting opportunity.

"I thank Toulon for these years together and remain determined to fulfil my commitment to the club until the end of the Top 14 season. At the same time, I am grateful to the federation, President Duodo, and the head coach for the trust placed in me with this new role, which I approach with humility and great love for the Azzurri, which has always been the guiding force of my playing career."

Quesada is looking forward to having his former captain in the mix with his beloved Azzurri.

"Sergio was a great player, a reference point for Italy and for every team he played for," he said.

He was my captain at Stade Francais - we won a Bouclier de Brennus and a Challenge Cup together. I know his qualities as a person and an athlete, and the level of commitment he brings to everything he does. I know he is eager to contribute to our staff and the national team, and it is wonderful that someone who represented so much for Italian rugby is returning to his country. He will add his professionalism and experience to a staff that already has great human and professional qualities."

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