Toulouse coach Guy Novès will succeed Philippe Saint-André as France coach after the World Cup.

Novès has signed a four-year contract through to the 2019 World Cup in Japan, and beats out the likes of Clive Woodward and Raphaël Ibañez, who were also in contention for the role.

Having led Toulouse to 10 Top 14 titles and four European Cups during his reign of more than two decades, Novès certainly has the pedigree to take on France's top job.

'I'm very pleased and proud to have been nominated,' said Novès, who turned down the role in 2011. 'To be in charge of the French team and represent your country is both a great honour and a great responsibility.

'I'm the first supporter of the French team and I hope they have a great World Cup with all my heart.'

Photo: Pascal Pavani/AFP Photo