Scott Robertson departs as All Blacks head coach

New Zealand Rugby has confirmed that Scott Robertson has been removed as All Blacks head coach, ending his tenure just two years into a four year contract.

The decision follows a formal review of the 2025 season led by NZR chairman David Kirk, alongside board member Keven Mealamu and former high performance manager Don Tricker. After assessing the team’s progress midway through the current World Cup cycle, the governing body concluded that a change in leadership was in the best interests of the national side.

Robertson took over from Ian Foster after the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. NZR said the review examined on field and off field performance, with a focus on preparing the team for a demanding 2026 schedule and the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Scott Robertson has departed as Head Coach of the All Blacks. We wish Razor all the best with his next steps.

A process will commence immediately to recruit a new Head Coach. pic.twitter.com/WWDtsox5ed

— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) January 15, 2026

Kirk confirmed that the search for a new head coach will begin immediately and said both NZR and Robertson agreed it was the right time to part ways.

Before coaching the All Blacks, Robertson achieved remarkable success with the Crusaders, winning seven Super Rugby titles in seven seasons. As a former All Blacks flanker, he has had a long and influential involvement in New Zealand rugby.

In a statement, Robertson said it was an honour to coach the All Blacks and that he was proud of the progress made, including the development of young players and improved squad depth. He said stepping aside would give a new coaching group the time needed to prepare for the next World Cup.

New Zealand Rugby is expected to provide further updates on the coaching appointment in the coming days.