New Zealand Rugby has officially announced that Scott Robertson will no longer serve as the head coach of the All Blacks, ending his tenure halfway through a four-year contract. This decision comes after an internal review concerning the team’s performance in the lead-up to the 2025 season, which was reportedly very critical of Robertson’s coaching strategy and leadership style.
The review was conducted by NZR chairman David Kirk, former All Blacks hooker Keven Mealamu, and ex-high-performance manager Don Tricker. Following a careful examination of the findings, the NZR board decided to part ways with Robertson and has immediately started the search for a new head coach.
Kirk expressed that the timing of this decision aligns with the midpoint of the current Rugby World Cup cycle, noting it as a natural moment for a comprehensive assessment of team progress. “With a demanding 2026 programme ahead and the 2027 World Cup as the ultimate objective, we’ve taken a comprehensive look at how the team is tracking both on and off the field,” Kirk stated. He added that after discussions with Robertson, they mutually agreed that a change was in the best interests of the All Blacks.
Robertson, who has referred to coaching the national team as the “honour of my life,” shared his deep disappointment regarding the decision. Despite achieving a respectable win record of 20 victories from 27 tests, translating to a 74 percent success rate, his two seasons with the team were overshadowed by inconsistencies. The All Blacks faced significant defeats, including a historic 43–10 loss to South Africa in Wellington and their first-ever loss to Argentina on their home soil. However, they also achieved notable successes, like maintaining their unbeaten record at Eden Park against the Springboks and retaining the Bledisloe Cup.
Behind the scenes, growing concerns were evident, as player dissatisfaction reportedly emerged as early as late 2024, with indications that Robertson’s leadership was losing favor among parts of the playing group. Although he experienced considerable success with the Crusaders in Super Rugby, that level of dominance did not fully carry over into the Test rugby environment, which is marked by heightened competition and pressure.
Kirk took a moment to thank Robertson for his significant contributions to New Zealand rugby, both as a player and coach. “Scott has always put the All Blacks first,” he affirmed, acknowledging Robertson’s unwavering passion and dedication to the sport. The organization wishes him the best in his future endeavors.
This transition presents an opportunity for revitalizing the All Blacks’ approach and strategy as they prepare for future challenges in the rugby landscape. As the NZR embarks on this new chapter, fans and players alike remain hopeful for a reenergized team under new leadership.
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