Bernard Laporte is quitting as head coach of Les Bleus after this year's World Cup, to take up a government role as junior minister for sport.

But Maso, who has been involved in the France set-up since 1995, wants to continue in his current role for a further spell.

'I have discussed it with my friend, FFR president (Bernard) Lapasset, who wants us to continue our collaboration,' he said.

'Everything is yet to be decided. But I am very proud about it and, of course, what interests me the most is continuing and living this human and sporting adventure close to the France team.'

Lapasset added: 'He is fine in his position.

'After the World Cup, we will need the experience of Jo in order to build something different and stronger.

'We will need Jo to give guidance to the new coach who will be named.'

Maso was made general manager in 1995, working alongside the coaching team of Jean-Claude Skrela and Pierre Villepreux.

He has been the right-hand man to Laporte since the latter took the reins in 1999.

A successor to Laporte will be announced before the 2008 RBS 6 Nations Championship.