Portugal Colonial - Scotland's Townsend extends contract until 2027 Rugby World Cup

The 52-year-old former international, already Scotland's longest-serving coach of the professional era, will have been in the role for more than a decade by the time he leads the team to his third global showpiece.

Townsend's contract was due to expire after next year's Six Nations.

There had been doubt about whether he would be retained following successive fourth-placed finishes in the Six Nations and pool-stage exits at the 2019 and 2023 World Cups.

However, he is looking forward to remaining in the role.

"Being the Scotland head coach is a massive honour for me personally, a true privilege," Townsend on the Scottish Rugby website as his extension was announced on Wednesday.

"The opportunity to coach my country at another Rugby World Cup is exciting and I am hugely motivated to help the team perform to its potential.

"Over recent years I have been really encouraged by the progress the team has made and the depth we have built in a number of positions."

Scottish Rugby performance director David Nucifora said there was more to come from Townsend's squad.

"He (Townsend) has built an impressive squad with increased depth across a number of positions that is now coming into its prime regarding international experience," Nucifora said.

"We are excited about what is to come from the men's national team in the coming years and Gregor is the best person to take them forward."

P.L.Madureira--PC