Rugby Australia Appoints Les Kiss

Les Kiss confirmed as new Wallabies coach, succeeding Joe Schmidt in 2026. Schmidt extends tenure until July next year.

Les Kiss will succeed Joe Schmidt as Wallabies coach, but Schmidt will extend his tenure until July 2026. The original plan had Schmidt departing after the British & Irish Lions Test series in August.

Schmidt's extended stay means Kiss won't take charge until next year. Rugby Australia confirmed the arrangement, ensuring continuity for the team during this period.

Simon Kiss will take over as Wallabies coach on a two-year deal, with a key goal to prepare the team for the 2027 World Cup on home soil.

“I am humbled by the opportunity to serve as Wallabies coach from next year,” Kiss said, bringing experience from his role as defence coach under Ireland's successful coach Schmidt.

“I am humbled by the opportunity to serve as Wallabies coach from next year,” Kiss said in a news release.

“Joe and I have a strong relationship and a long history of working together, and I am looking forward to building upon the excellent foundations he has laid with the Wallabies.

“To coach our national team through such an important period, highlighted by a home Rugby World Cup in 2027, is the honour of a lifetime...”

Les Kiss is set to lead Australia after Joe Schmidt agreed to extend his tenure until July 2026. Kiss, who was favored for the role, will start his two-year term next year.

“My intention to finish at the end of this year's Rugby Championship has been adjusted to fit with Les's availability,” Schmidt said, allowing for a smoother transition. Schmidt's original plan was to step down after the Lions series to prioritize family commitments.

We're pleased to announce the appointment of Les Kiss as our next Head Coach from mid-2026, with Joe Schmidt continuing in the role until that time 🦘

More details 📲 https://t.co/uYMC8GmfUZ#Wallabies pic.twitter.com/KSSBxSbhrd

— Wallabies (@wallabies) April 29, 2025

Joe Schmidt's extension until July 2026 allows him more family time in Sydney. “For my family, the extension until the end of next July means that they will spend more time with me in Sydney, so we will hopefully find a good balance.”

Les Kiss has extensive coaching experience, having worked with teams like the Springboks, Ireland, NSW Waratahs, Ulster, and London Irish. As a player, he was known for his defensive skills, earning four tests for the Kangaroos in 1986. Under Kiss, the Reds are currently fourth in the standings, aiming for their first title since 2011.

Congratulations to Les Kiss 👏#SuperRugbyPacific pic.twitter.com/xvOZKGaIZ0

— Super Rugby Pacific (@SuperRugby) April 30, 2025

“I am thrilled to continue with the Reds for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season before transitioning into the Wallabies environment,” said Kiss.