The Welsh Rugby Union has appointed Steve Tandy as the new head coach of the Wales men’s national team, marking a pivotal moment in the sport’s efforts to recover from a bruising run of results and reconnect with its grassroots.
Tandy, 45, will officially take charge on 1 September, succeeding Warren Gatland, whose second tenure ended earlier this year following a Six Nations defeat to Italy. The appointment follows a record 18-match losing streak, which was finally broken with a 31–22 win over Japan in Kobe on 12 July.
Born in Tonmawr, Tandy is a familiar figure in Welsh rugby, having made over 100 appearances for the Ospreys before coaching the Swansea-based region to a PRO12 title in his first season in charge. His coaching career has since taken him to Australia’s Waratahs, Scotland’s national team, and the British and Irish Lions setup.
“Becoming head coach of my home country is a massive honour and a privilege,” said Tandy. “I’m excited about the potential of Welsh rugby and the group of young, hardworking players we have.”
Autumn tests and long-term strategy
Tandy’s first match at the helm will be against Argentina in Cardiff on 9 November, followed by fixtures against Japan, New Zealand, and world champions South Africa. He will lead Wales into the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, under a three-year contract agreed with the WRU.
WRU chief executive Abi Tierney described the appointment as a “keystone” in the Union’s five-year strategy to achieve sustainable success.
“Steve emerged as the standout candidate,” said Tierney. “He brings a galvanising effect as a proud Welshman and has the ability to connect with a young group of players with huge potential.”
A team in transition
Tandy inherits a side in flux. Wales briefly dropped to 14th in the world rankings earlier this summer — its lowest ever position — before climbing back to 12th. Interim head coach Matt Sherratt oversaw the recent tour of Japan, which included a narrow loss in Kitakyushu before the breakthrough win in Kobe.
WRU Director of Rugby Dave Reddin said Tandy’s coaching journey — which includes stints in Wales, Australia and Scotland — reflects the kind of “collaborative and systematic approach” needed to rebuild Welsh rugby.
“He brings a wealth of experience and a huge amount of passion and desire to excel in the role,” said Reddin.
