Wales Rugby Union has appointed Steve Tandy as their new head coach, marking the beginning of the post-Warren Gatland era. The 45-year-old Welshman will officially take over on 1 September after nearly six years serving as Scotland's defence coach.
Tandy's primary task will be to revive Wales' fortunes following a record 18-match losing streak, which finally ended with a 31-22 victory over Japan in Kobe on 12 July. His first match in charge will be against Argentina in Cardiff on 9 November, followed by fixtures against Japan, New Zealand, and world champions South Africa.
“Becoming head coach of my home country is a massive honour and a privilege,” said Tandy, who will lead Wales into the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. “I am looking forward to playing a role in the rebuilding phase of Welsh rugby and taking the national team back to competing with the best countries in the world.”
Gatland's second spell as Wales head coach ended in February after a 22-15 defeat by Italy in the Six Nations. Matt Sherratt then took over on an interim basis, overseeing losses to Ireland, Scotland, and England before leading the summer tour of Japan, which included a 24-19 defeat in Kitakyushu.
Tandy, a former flanker born in Tonmawr, previously served as head coach of Ospreys from 2012 to 2018, winning the Pro12 title in his first season. He also worked as defence coach for Australian side Waratahs and was part of Gatland's backroom staff for the 2021 British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa.
WRU chief executive Abi Tierney praised Tandy's appointment: “After a thorough process, Steve emerged as the standout candidate. He fits the bill in terms of the affinity he will create with a young group of players and the galvanising effect he can have on the whole rugby ecosystem as a proud Welshman.”
