Italy legend Sergio Parisse to take up role in Gonzalo Quesada’s coaching team

Italy great Sergio Parisse will return to the Azzurri this summer after being appointed as an assistant coach by Gonzalo Quesada . Widely regarded as the nation’s greatest-ever rugby player , Parisse won 142 caps for his country between 2002 and 2019 and made a record 69 appearances in the Six Nations. Having concluded his playing career in 2023 at Toulon, the 42-year-old has since worked as a lineout and forwards coach at the Top 14 club, and will move into a similar role with Italy at the start of July.

Parisse and Quesada have worked together previously as captain and coach at Stade Francais and the former No 8 is looking forward to their reunion. “Returning to Italy and being able to contribute from within the FIR [Italian rugby federation] to the growth of the national team and the entire rugby movement in my country is an extraordinary opportunity,” Parisse said. “I'm delighted to be able to do so alongside a coach I worked with during my years as a player at Stade Francais and whom I have deep respect for, Gonzalo Quesada.

“I'll be joining a high-level staff and having the opportunity to serve a group of athletes with great potential and a strong work ethic. Today, thanks to the work done on player development, Italy boasts a depth and talent superior to that of my generation, and being able to fit into this environment as a coach is a fascinating opportunity. ” Italy face a tricky start to the inaugural Nations Championship with away fixtures against Japan, New Zealand and Australia in July.

They finished fourth in the Six Nations after securing an historic first win over England in round four.