Joe Schmidt's Final Chapter as Wallabies Coach Approaches
Joe Schmidt has just three Tests remaining as head coach of the Wallabies, with matches against Ireland, France, and Italy marking the end of his tenure before he hands over the reins of Australia's national rugby union side. The outgoing boss is in a hurry, with the clock ticking down on his reign, but he remains focused on celebrating the high points rather than dwelling on end points.
A Relentless Work Ethic Defies the 'Grandpa Joe' Nickname
Schmidt's schedule is packed, from coaching Footscray RFC's under-18s in Melbourne's west to conducting lengthy Q&A sessions and meeting with Wallabies leaders to set standards at Super Rugby clubs. This relentless pace contrasts sharply with the moniker his grandchildren have given him. "They call me Grandpa Joe and I don't like it," says Schmidt, 60. "Grandpa Joe is the old bloke in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory who never gets out of bed, whereas I never find enough hours in the day to get everything done that I want to."
This dedication should reassure Wallabies fans, as Schmidt's passion for the gold jersey remains undimmed. "Australian rugby has given me a great group of men who are totally invested and utterly determined to represent that jersey the best they can," he explains. "We haven't got it right all the time but this side is hungry to earn the support of the country."
Reflecting on Challenges and Triumphs
Schmidt's tenure has seen mixed results, with a 5-10 win-loss season in 2025 that included four straight defeats on a winless European tour. However, he highlights positives, such as scoring three tries against Ireland and five against France during that difficult period. "Eight tries against two of the world's best sides," he notes, maintaining a defiantly optimistic outlook.
Despite Australia's current eighth-place world ranking, Schmidt points to improvements in player development and depth. "If everyone's fit, we've got a great side," he asserts. He recalls last year's bright start, including a last-gasp victory over Fiji and a closely contested British & Irish Lions series lost 2-1. A standout moment was the comeback win against South Africa at Ellis Park, where the Wallabies recovered from 0-22 to score six straight tries and beat the world champions 38-22. "But those victories are high points, not end points," Schmidt emphasizes.
Transitioning to Les Kiss and Future Prospects
Schmidt's farewell lap begins with a clash against his former side, Ireland, in Sydney on 4 July. He reflects on his successful stint with Ireland, where he took them from ninth to first in the world rankings, but downplays any notion of an ambush. "That's not to say there's an ambush coming, just a lot of hard work going on behind the scenes," he says.
His Wallabies record of 11-17 (43%) pales against his 55-22 (71%) with Ireland, but he and incoming coach Les Kiss are plotting a strong finish. Schmidt praises Kiss, who ran defence during their time together with Ireland and will take over in July. "He'll spend the week with us before the Brisbane and Perth Tests too," Schmidt adds, noting the seamless transition.
Schmidt was not involved in Rugby Australia's appointment of his successor but approves of the choice. "They've fallen upon a really good candidate so Wallabies fans should be excited," he says. "Les is 100% invested with very broad experience. We're great mates and I'll always be around to help him."
Personal Priorities and Unfinished Business
After fulfilling his duties, Schmidt plans to return to his family, including his youngest son, Luke, whose serious epilepsy condition has made his service to the Wallabies all the more significant. "I've got regrets about leaving," he admits. "I feel like a lot of unseen positives are about to become visible." He mentions players like Mark Nawaquinatawase, Angus Crichton, and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii as promising talents for the future.
Schmidt's eyes gleam with devotion as he discusses the team, but he quickly refocuses on personal plans. "The first thing my wife and I will do is fly to Ireland to see our new grandson," he says. However, he leaves the door open for a potential return. "If a window opens and my wife is sick of me being home and Luke is in a good place, then who knows? One thing I've learned in this life is to never say never."
As the Wallabies prepare to start life without their so-called Grandpa Joe, Schmidt's legacy of hard work and optimism will be a tough act to follow.
