Ex-Rugby League Star and World-Travelling Coach Set to Take Helm as New Wallabies Head Coach

Rugby Australia is set to unveil Les Kiss as the new head coach of the Wallabies this Wednesday, as reported by The Sydney Morning Herald.

The 60-year-old Kiss will be the fifth coach of the national men’s team in a span of just six years.

Kiss replaces Joe Schmidt, who informed Rugby Australia in February that he would step down for family reasons after the conclusion of the Rugby Championship in October.

Although Kiss is under contract with the Queensland Reds until the end of 2026, Rugby Australia has successfully negotiated his release from that contract.

A former rugby league winger, Kiss represented both Australia and Queensland before embarking on a coaching career in rugby union.

His coaching journey began in 2001 as a defence coach with the Springboks, leading him to the NSW Waratahs shortly thereafter.

He played a significant role in helping Ireland clinch the Six Nations title in 2009 and has participated in two World Cups.

Having taken the helm of the Reds in 2023, he is now set to guide the Wallabies.

Ex-Australian star Nick Phipps, who played under Kiss at London Irish, commented on Stan Sport earlier this month, expressing confidence that his former coach could effectively manage both the Wallabies and Reds if required.

“He would certainly be capable of balancing both commitments,” Phipps stated.

“While it may not be visible to the public, behind the scenes, he’d be quite busy.

“However, Kissy is a true workaholic. He’s genuinely passionate about it. He doesn’t just do what’s needed; he loves every moment of it.

“You’ll often find him walking around with his iPad, ready to engage in deep footy discussions whenever he spots you.”