A process will commence immediately to recruit a new head coach. New Zealand Rugby chair David Kirk said in a statement the mid-point in the Rugby World Cup cycle is the right time to look at the All Blacks’ progress over the first two seasons. 

The team are set to play a significant 2026 schedule, and the tournament in 2027 remains the key goal.

“We’ve taken an extensive look at the team’s progress on and off the field and have subsequently had discussions with Scott on the way forward. Both NZR and Scott agree it is in the best interests of the team that he depart his role as head coach,” he said.

The much-feared All Blacks performing the Haka in November last year. Photo: Facebook/New Zealand national rugby union team

Kirk acknowledged Robertson’s contribution to the All Blacks across a long period of time. “On behalf of New Zealand Rugby, I would like to thank Scott for his contribution to the All Blacks. As always, he has continued to put the All Blacks first, and we respect that he has done the hard but right thing in agreeing to depart.

“His passion for the team as both a player and coach is evident, and his commitment to and involvement in rugby in New Zealand at every level over a long period is significant. We wish him well for the future.” 

NZR will now commence the All Blacks’ head coach recruitment process immediately and will provide an update in the coming days.

Scott Robertson represented New Zealand as both a player and a coach. Photo: SA Rugby Magazine

The All Blacks are scheduled to play next in three July Nations Championship matches in New Zealand.

Robertson was appointed head coach for the Crusaders in 2017.  He enjoyed great success with the franchise, winning seven Super Rugby titles in seven years.  He also represented the Crusaders and the All Blacks as a flanker.

He was appointed head coach of the All Blacks in 2024 and guided them to 10 wins out of 13 Tests.  However, the first-ever away loss to Argentina, a record 43-10 loss to South Africa in Wellington, and defeat at the hands of England at Twickenham in November, are believed to have contributed to his downfall.

His contract was due to expire following the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger cvs