Joe Schmidt is set to pass the Wallabies coaching duties to Les Kiss next year, having been persuaded by Rugby Australia to extend his tenure for a second time.
Originally, Schmidt’s contract as head coach was due to conclude following this year’s British and Irish Lions series. However, he announced in February that he would continue until the Rugby Championship’s conclusion in October.
On Wednesday, Rugby Australia confirmed that Schmidt will now lead the team until after Australia’s involvement in the inaugural Nations Cup in 2026.
“My initial plan to step down at the conclusion of this year’s Rugby Championship has been revised to accommodate Les’s availability,” Schmidt remarked.
“He has been doing a fantastic job with the Reds, so it was vital to coordinate with his commitments there.”
“Being involved with the Wallabies has been a privilege—both the staff and players have dedicated themselves, but we’re all aware that considerable work lies ahead, especially with the British and Irish Lions visiting in a few months’ time.”
“For my family, this extension until the end of next July means they’ll be able to spend more time with me in Sydney, allowing us to hopefully strike a good balance.”
Schmidt and Kiss, who have collaborated successfully in the past with Ireland, will participate in a joint press conference in Sydney on Wednesday morning.
This marks a remarkable career journey for Kiss, the former rugby league winger for North Sydney Bears, Queensland, and Australia.
Kiss boasts an impressive coaching career spanning over 20 years, which includes key positions in Australia, Ireland, England, and South Africa.
On the international stage, Kiss served as an assistant coach for the Springboks and was part of Ireland’s remarkable achievements, including a Grand Slam in 2009 and Six Nations titles in 2009, 2014, and 2015, as well as reaching the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals in both 2011 and 2015.
This season has seen the Reds positioned fourth out of 11 teams after 10 rounds of the Super Rugby Pacific.
Kiss has signed on until 2028.
“It’s an incredibly thrilling time for Australian rugby, and I feel honoured to take on the role of Wallabies head coach from next year,” Kiss expressed.
“Joe and I have a robust relationship and a long history of collaboration, and I eagerly anticipate building upon the solid foundations he has established with the Wallabies.”
“I’m excited to continue with the Reds for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season before transitioning into the Wallabies setup. Coaching our national team through such a pivotal period, particularly with a home Rugby World Cup in 2027, is a tremendous honour, and I’m genuinely grateful for this opportunity.”
“I look forward to contributing to the ongoing development of Australian Rugby.”
Phil Waugh, the CEO of Rugby Australia, will be relieved to announce this news after a period of uncertainty, which included losing starting No.10 Noah Lolesio to a contract in France for next season.
“We are thrilled that Joe will continue as Wallabies head coach for an additional year before transitioning to the extremely experienced and qualified Les Kiss in 2026,” Waugh stated.
“I have always held the belief that team culture is crucial, and with Joe and Les, we have a succession of Wallabies head coaches who have cultivated some of the strongest cultures in Australia and globally.”
“From the outset, Rugby Australia expressed the aim of ensuring continuity with the Wallabies and minimising disruption to Super Rugby clubs. With Joe remaining for another year and Les stepping in after concluding his tenure with the Reds, we’ve achieved both objectives, which I’m confident will be welcomed by rugby fans nationwide.”
“We are optimistic that we have arrived at the best possible resolution, allowing Australian rugby to confidently and clearly embark on its next exciting chapter.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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