New Zealand Rugby appointed Dave Rennie as the new All Blacks head coach. He replaces Scott Robertson, who lost his job earlier this year. NZR confirmed the appointment on Wednesday. Robertson was dismissed midway through his four-year contract in January.
He led the All Blacks to 20 wins in 27 matches. However, officials believed the results fell below national expectations.
“Coaching the All Blacks is an incredible honour. I’m extremely proud to have been entrusted with this role and understand the expectations that come with it,” Rennie said.
“I’m really clear on the way I want the All Blacks to play and I look forward to working with the players, management team, and the rugby community.”
NZ Rugby Chooses Rennie Over Jamie Joseph
New Zealand Rugby selected Rennie ahead of Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph. Joseph previously coached Japan’s national team.
NZR chairman David Kirk confirmed the rigorous selection process. He said it was the most thorough appointment process in team history. The 62-year-old inherits a squad unsettled by a poor 2025 performance review. Earlier reports also suggested players had revolted against Robertson.
““He is a world-class coach who has consistently shown he can build strong performance environments and win,” said NZ Rugby chairman David Kirk.
“Dave understands what it means to coach the All Blacks and play a style of rugby that reflects who we are as New Zealanders.”
“The All Blacks are set for a challenging and exciting two seasons ahead and it’s critical we followed a thorough process to find the right head coach,” he said.
“Dave has a clear direction for the team that gives us confidence the team will be well positioned to perform as we head into the 2027 World Cup.”
Experienced Coach Prepares for All Blacks Return
Rennie brings extensive coaching experience across several competitions and countries. First, he guided the Chiefs to Super Rugby titles in 2012 and 2013.
Later, he took Glasgow Warriors to the Pro14 final in 2019. Earlier, he led New Zealand Under-20 to three Junior World Championship titles.
Rennie also coached the Wallabies from 2020 until 2023. However, Australia replaced him with Eddie Jones before the World Cup.
Most recently, Rennie coached Kobelco Kobe Steelers in Japan’s League One. He helped transform the club into a strong title contender.
However, Rennie will finish commitments with the Kobe Steelers first. Afterward, he returns to New Zealand for July Test preparations.
The All Blacks will host France, Italy, and Ireland during the July series. Meanwhile, NZR will confirm the coaching staff in the coming weeks.
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