Warren Gatland has been confirmed as the British and Irish Lions head coach for the tour of New Zealand in 2017.

The 52-year-old Wales boss was widely expected to take the role having been part the Lions setup since 2009.

Gatland was assistant coach in the tour of South Africa seven years ago, and as head coach in 2013, guided the team to their first series win over Australia Down Under in 16 years.

"Coaching the British and Irish Lions is a great privilege," said Gatland. "The 2013 tour was a real career highlight for me and I am honoured to be offered the role again. The chance to work with the best players from the four home nations is a coach's dream and we have some outstanding talent to select from.

"Likewise, there are some outstanding coaches who could potentially be involved and we'll look to announce them in December. I'm looking forward to seeing how they and the players get on domestically, in Europe and internationally.

"I know from having been in New Zealand recently how much excitement there is ahead of next year. For the All Blacks a Lions series is the ultimate test but I am 100% confident that we can go and win in New Zealand."

Tour manager John Spencer added: "We are delighted to have Warren as head coach for a second tour. His international track record speaks for itself and he also understands the essence of the Lions and how to unite four nations in one purpose. Warren is acutely aware of the challenges we will face in New Zealand and we are confident he is the right man to lead us to a series victory."

Gatland will start his role immediately and will remain in charge until the end of the tour.