Joe Schmidt to Step Down as Wallabies Head Coach After Rugby Championship

Rugby Australia begins search for Schmidt's successor, with Les Kiss, Stephen Larkham, and Dan McKellar among top contenders.

Joe Schmidt has announced he will leave his role as Wallabies head coach after the 2025 Rugby Championship, ending his tenure before the 2027 World Cup.
Schmidt will remain in charge for six more Tests, including the Rugby Championship and two Bledisloe Cup matches against New Zealand.
Rugby Australia is prioritizing domestic candidates, with Les Kiss, Stephen Larkham, and Dan McKellar emerging as leading options for the position.
Les Kiss, currently coaching the Queensland Reds, is seen as a strong candidate due to his experience with Schmidt in Ireland and his success in Super Rugby.
Stephen Larkham and Dan McKellar, both with prior Wallabies and Super Rugby coaching experience, are also being considered, though each faces unique challenges regarding availability and fit.