Joe Schmidt will step down as Wallabies head coach in July 2026, bringing an end to his tenure with Australia as he prioritises spending more time with his family.
Rugby Australia has already confirmed that current Queensland Reds boss Les Kiss will succeed Schmidt, with the former Ireland head coach remaining in charge through next summer’s international programme before handing over the reins.
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Family First
While Schmidt has enjoyed his time with the Wallabies, family considerations have always shaped his future plans.
His son Luke suffers from severe epilepsy, and Schmidt has spoken openly in the past about the challenges his family faces and the importance of being present at home in New Zealand.
When his contract extension was announced earlier this year, Schmidt explained:
“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.”
The 60-year-old also revealed Rugby Australia’s support in helping his family spend more time with him played a key role in his decision to stay on for an extra year.
“The family situation, the support from RA around getting the family over a little bit more often to Sydney, where I’m usually based, made it a little bit easier.”
Les Kiss Set To Take Over
The Wallabies boss originally intended to leave after the 2025 Rugby Championship but agreed to remain in the role until July 2026 to provide continuity ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup on home soil.
His final matches in charge are expected to come during Australia’s July 2026 international schedule before he hands over to Les Kiss.
Reflecting on the decision to eventually step away, Schmidt admitted:
“It’s disappointing for me but I also know that it’s something that I need to commit to finishing up.”
His departure will mark the end of a significant chapter for Australian rugby, with the Wallabies hoping Schmidt’s foundations can help drive them towards a successful home World Cup under new leadership.
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