Munster and Ireland rugby legend Anthony Foley died of an "acute pulmonary oedema", an autopsy has revealed.

Foley's remains are due to be flown home today, ahead of his funeral in Co Clare on Friday.

The 42-year-old was found dead in Paris on Sunday.

According to the autopsy, Foley "had a heart rhythm disorder that caused an acute pulmonary oedema", the Nanterre public prosecutor west of Paris told AFP.

Pulmonary oedema is a build-up of fluid in the lungs that can lead to respiratory failure.

His death could therefore "be linked to a cardiac problem", the prosecutor added, without giving any further details.

Other toxicological analyses are under way, with results due in the coming weeks.

The prosecutor also issued a burial permit, with the body free to be released to the family.

Foley, the head coach of Munster, was found dead in his hotel room hours before his side were to play Racing 92 in the European Champions Cup in Paris on Sunday.

The robust backrow forward won 62 caps for Ireland, captaining the team on three occasions. He also led Munster to the European title in 2006.

Earlier, details of Foley's funeral were announced.

His remains will lie in repose at St Flannan's Church, Killaloe from 1pm to 8:30pm on Thursday evening.

People intending on paying their respects to Anthony have been asked to attend early.

The funeral mass will take place at midday on Friday at St Flannan’s Church, with Church reserved for family and friends only.