French rugby union legend Frederic Michalak appointed Sharks assistant coach

The playmaker who helped condemn the All Blacks to their worst finish at the Rugby World Cup will join Cronulla as coach Craig Fitzgibbon’s right-hand man in 2026.

Legendry France fly-half Frederic Michalak will join the Sharks in 2026. Picture: AFP/Martin Bureau

Frederic Michalak – the French rugby union magician - is the Sharks secret weapon in 2026 after being appointed as Craig Fitzgibbon’s right-hand man.

Michalak, who achieved four World Cups with France, which included eliminating the All Blacks in 2007 – will join Fitzgibbon’s coaching staff from mid-2026 after completing his commitments with European rugby powerhouse Racing 92.

Renowned for his flair and elite game management as a former fly-half with 436-points from 77 Tests for France across an incredible 15-year international career, Michalak will cover the void left following the departure of long-term Sharks assistant coach Josh Hannay to commence his NRL coaching journey at the Titans.

Michalak, 43, will join Fitzgibbon’s NRL coaching staff that also includes Steve Price and Daniel Holdsworth.

Michalak, who also represented Toulouse, Toulon, Lyon and South Africa’s Sharks at club level in the 15-man code, is no stranger to the NRL and the Sharks.

Craig Fitzgibbon hopes the rugby legend can help the Sharks conquer the club’s finals wobbles. Picture: Thomas Lisson

He previously worked at Cronulla as a kicking and skills consultant with the Sharks halves in 2022, the same year Cronulla star Nicho Hynes won the Dally M Award.

Michalak also worked with Fitzgibbon and former Roosters half Luke Keary during a consultancy stint at the Sydney Roosters, where he worked as a coaching consultant to Roosters coach Trent Robinson.

In 2023, he moved to rival club Racing 92, taking on an assistant coach position and leading the team’s attack.

“Fred’s experience on the international stage will be an invaluable asset for our squad, especially heading into the business end of next season,” Fitzgibbon said.

“He’s already built strong relationships with many of our players and staff through his consultancy work and I have no doubt as to the value he’ll provide our program.

“We wish Fred well as he looks to finish his time at Racing 92 on a high note and can’t wait to welcome him to our club full time in 2026.”

Originally published as French rugby union legend Frederic Michalak appointed Sharks assistant coach