Racing 92 have granted Ronan O’Gara an early release from his contract so he can take up a coaching role with the Crusaders.

The former Ireland flyhalf, who joined Racing as an assistant coach in July 2013, will begin his new role in New Zealand from 1 January.

In a statement, Racing said O’Gara was keen to take up the opportunity to join the Crusaders, which will allow him to ‘enrich his rugby knowledge and improve his training methods.’