LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken

French legend to take on Sharks assistant coach's role

The Sharks are excited to announce that global rugby union star Frédéric Michalak will join their NRL coaching staff next season.

Michalak is set to become an assistant to head coach Craig Fitzgibbon starting mid-2026, after fulfilling his obligations with European rugby giant Racing 92.

The 43-year-old boasts an impressive international career, having played 77 Tests for France over 15 years, and has also represented clubs such as Toulouse, Toulon, Lyon, and South Africa's Sharks in the rugby union scene.

Known for his creativity and playmaking skills as a fly-half, Michalak is no stranger to rugby league and the Cronulla Sharks. In 2022, he provided valuable insights to the club's halves as a kicking and skills consultant, receiving high praise from players like Nicho Hynes. Additionally, he collaborated with Fitzgibbon during a consultancy period at the Sydney Roosters.

After retiring from playing in 2018, Michalak transitioned into a management role as President Consultant in Lyon. In 2021, he served as a coaching consultant for the Sydney Roosters, and furthered his coaching career by joining French Top 14 powerhouse Toulon as an assistant coach focusing on player development later that same year.

In 2023, he took on an assistant coach role at rival club Racing 92, where he was responsible for leading the team's attack.