Emotional Exit for Robertson as All Blacks Coach After Tough Review

Robertson, a highly successful Super Rugby coach before taking charge of the national side, agreed with New Zealand Rugby that it was in the team’s best interests for him to leave after reflecting on feedback from the review. Despite notable achievements and a strong desire to build for the future, mixed results — including heavy defeats and disappointing tours last season — contributed to a consensus that a fresh coaching direction was needed. New Zealand Rugby will now begin its search for a successor, with experienced candidates said to be under consideration.

Stepping Down After Intense Review

Scott Robertson’s departure from the All Blacks role came after an internal evaluation of the team’s performance that highlighted concerns about the squad’s trajectory. While he led the side through a substantial number of matches since his appointment, setbacks in key tests against top-tier nations raised questions about consistency and long-term readiness heading into the next World Cup cycle.

Robertson said he was “gutted” by the outcome but understood the decision, expressing pride in the progress the team had made and in laying foundations with a group of young players. He and New Zealand Rugby agreed that ending his contract early would allow new leadership the time needed to prepare the squad for upcoming challenges, including a full Nations Championship schedule later this year.

Mixed Results and Tough Losses

During Robertson’s tenure, the All Blacks recorded a respectable number of wins, but several notable defeats cast a shadow over his leadership. The team suffered historic losses — including heavy defeats to top rivals on home soil and first-ever results in certain away fixtures — which contributed to the feeling within the review that the side was not building momentum as expected.

Despite his strong record at the provincial level and respected status within New Zealand rugby, Robertson’s strategies and team performances did not always translate into the consistency needed at the international level. These results, combined with critical feedback from the end-of-season review, played a key role in shaping the decision to transition coaching leadership now.

Robertson’s Reflections and Legacy

In his statement, Robertson emphasised that coaching the All Blacks was “the honour of my life” and spoke warmly about the progress made under his guidance. He highlighted the successful integration of emerging talent and the groundwork laid for future seasons, even as the review suggested that a new perspective might benefit the team’s development.

Acknowledging he was “incredibly proud” of what had been achieved, Robertson noted his focus had always been the success of the All Blacks. His willingness to step aside reflected a broader commitment to the team’s goals, even if the outcome was personally disappointing.

Looking Ahead: New Leadership and Challenges

With Robertson’s exit confirmed, New Zealand Rugby says it will immediately begin the process of finding a new head coach capable of guiding the All Blacks through a busy 2026 campaign and beyond, including preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. Names of experienced international coaches are already being mentioned as potential candidates to take over the reins.

The team will face a rigorous schedule later this year, with multiple Test matches — including tours against top-ranking nations — providing early tests for new leadership. As the programme resets, expectations remain high for New Zealand rugby, and the search for the next All Blacks coach will be one of the sport’s most closely watched developments in the months ahead.