It has emerged Warren Gatland will be free to coach the Lions on their 2013 tour of Australia thanks to a five-month break clause in his new Wales deal.
Gatland inked his new Wales extension, taking him up to the 2015 World Cup, with the five month gap agreed while Wales tour Japan.
Gatland has insisted the Lions weren't in his thinking when he negotiated the break, instead he was just looking to spend some time at home.
However, he won't rule out the possibility of getting involved if the opportunity presents itself.
"Part of my contract negotiations included being able to spend some time back in New Zealand," said Gatland.
"Wales have agreed that for 2013, while the Lions are touring and Wales play Japan for a couple of games, I could appoint some younger coaches which would enable me to spend four or five months back in New Zealand.
"For a Lions team to be successful is incredibly hard. It was a fantastic experience and an honour and a privilege to be involved with the players. To do it again? We'll just have to see."