The Australian Rugby Federation confirmed on Tuesday the extension of Joe Schmidt at the head of the Wallabies until 2026. This surprising decision comes when the Kiss, the current Reds coach, was appointed to take over during the 2027 World Cup, after the end of the Super Rugby Pacific season.
A carefully planned transition
Initially, Joe Schmidt had planned to leave his post after this year’s rugby championship. However, he decided to extend his contract to facilitate the transition to the management of Les Kiss, which will only enter in mid-2026. In a statement, Schmidt explained: “My intention to finish at the end of this year rugby championship was adjusted according to the availability of them. I think it does a great job with the Reds, so it was important to adapt it to its responsibilities there. »»
An orderly transfer of responsibilities
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The Australian Federation stressed that this extension will allow a smooth passage of relays between Schmidt and Kiss. The transition is scheduled around June 2026, thereby minimizing disturbances in the Australian rugby ecosystem. Schmidt and Kiss will work together to the tour against the British and Irish lions in 2025, before preparing the 2027 rugby world cup, which will take place in Australia.
Kiss: a personal challenge
The Kiss, who already collaborated with Schmidt during their visit with the Irish national team, expressed his enthusiasm at the idea of directing the Wallabies during a World Cup at home. “It is the honor of a life for me,” he said. Kiss also praised Schmidt’s work, saying: “I can’t wait to continue on the momentum of the excellent bases he set with the Wallabies. »»
An inheritance to build
Joe Schmidt, who took the reins of the Wallabies after the departure of Eddie Jones, was able to straighten a team in difficulty after an early elimination during the 2023 World Cup. With this extension, he has the opportunity to consolidate his inheritance and prepare the ground for the Kiss, who will continue to develop the talent and the potential of the Wallabies until 2028.
The rugby community in Australia observes this transition with interest, hoping that the work of Schmidt and Kiss will be able to lead the team to new heights on the international scene.
Bruno Lancelle, born in 1986 in La Seyne-sur-Mer (Var), now a physiotherapist, is a former XV rugby player who was playing at the opening half of opening, passed by Toulon, Lyon, Provence Rugby, La Seyne-sur-Mer, US Bressane, Lille and Hyères.
