Joe Schmidt Declines All Blacks Role, Cites Loyalty to Wallabies Program
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Despite speculation following a coaching shakeup, Joe Schmidt has affirmed his commitment to the Australian national rugby team, turning down the opportunity to rejoin the New Zealand All Blacks.
The rugby world was abuzz with rumors linking Schmidt to a return to the All Blacks following Scott Robertson’s recent dismissal. However, the veteran coach emphatically stated on Friday that his “loyalty” lies with the Wallabies, the team he’s currently guiding through a period of rebuilding. Schmidt’s contract with Rugby Australia concludes in July, but he intends to honor his commitments and the relationships he’s forged within the Australian program.
A Matter of Loyalty and Bonds
“No [I won’t be applying],” Schmidt told a small group of reporters in Sydney. “It’s an incredible job, obviously having been involved with the All Blacks before and I thoroughly enjoyed it. But you build a loyalty to the players you’re working with and the staff that you’re working with.” He highlighted the enthusiastic support from Australian fans, citing packed stadiums in Sydney, Townsville, Newcastle, and Perth, even during challenging matches.
The coach specifically recalled the energy surrounding the Lions series and emphasized his feeling that he couldn’t simply “walk out and swap sides.” He explained that his departure from the All Blacks was initiated by a request from Peter Horne, a Rugby Australia director, to bring his expertise to the Australian side.
All Blacks Coaching Race Narrows
With Schmidt out of the running, the race to become the next All Blacks coach is expected to come down to Jamie Joseph and Dave Rennie, both of whom meet the criteria established by New Zealand Rugby. Despite the recent coaching change, Schmidt believes the next coach will inherit a strong foundation.
“Whoever gets the job, the All Blacks are always formidable,” Schmidt stated. “Their player pool is evidenced by the way they finish in Super Rugby on a regular basis, playing the finals.” He expressed hope that Australian teams would also achieve greater success in Super Rugby, contributing to the overall strength of the sport.
Future Plans and Transition to Les Kiss
While Rugby Australia officials hope to retain Schmidt in some advisory capacity through the 2027 World Cup, the 60-year-old intends to step away completely when Les Kiss takes over as Wallabies coach in July, following the first three Tests of the Nations Championship. Schmidt plans to return to Dublin to spend time with family.
However, the possibility of Schmidt serving as a sounding board for Kiss remains open. The incoming coach will begin his tenure with Tests against Japan and a two-game series against Argentina.
Schmidt also addressed the potential inclusion of NRL recruit Angus Crichton in the Wallabies squad, noting that while it isn’t his primary focus, there’s merit in following the path blazed by Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii in 2024. He highlighted the existing strength in the midfield, particularly the impact of Len Ikitau.
“With Angus Crichton, with Lenny being so influential… it would be hard to see Lenny being out of the picture,” Schmidt said. He emphasized the value of allowing Crichton to train with the team and acclimate to the rugby environment, drawing a parallel to Joseph’s successful transition in 2023.
Positive Momentum for Australian Rugby
Looking ahead, Schmidt expressed optimism about the future of Australian rugby, noting a genuine “buzz” around the game. He pointed to strong attendance figures at recent matches, including those featuring Argentina, the All Blacks, and the British & Irish Lions.
“The interest in the game still seems really strong,” Schmidt said. “We had sold-out stadiums and some massive crowds… I felt we earnt some support through that period.” He believes the upcoming match against Ireland at Allianz Stadium presents a crucial opportunity to solidify that support and build momentum heading into the 2026 World Cup.
