Dave Rennie Named All Blacks Head Coach Through 2027 Rugby World Cup

Recent Zealand Rugby (NZR) has today announced the appointment of Dave Rennie as All Blacks Head Coach through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Historic Appointment

Rennie’s appointment marks a significant moment for New Zealand rugby, as he becomes the first All Blacks Head Coach with Pasifika heritage. He is of Cook Islands descent through his mother (Titikaveka, Rarotonga).

Proven Track Record

NZR Chair David Kirk emphasized Rennie’s extensive coaching experience.

On behalf of the Board, I’d like to congratulate Dave on his appointment as All Blacks Head Coach. He is a world-class coach who has consistently shown he can build strong performance environments and win.

Kirk further stated,

Dave understands what it means to coach the All Blacks and play a style of rugby that reflects who we are as New Zealanders. He has a deep understanding of rugby in New Zealand and the role the All Blacks play in shaping our national identity and bringing communities together.

Rennie’s Vision

Rennie expressed his honor and commitment to the role.

Coaching the All Blacks is an incredible honour. I’m extremely proud to have been entrusted with this role and understand the expectations that come with it.

He added,

I’m really clear on the way I want the All Blacks to play and I seem forward to working with the players, management team, and the rugby community. We have a lot of talent here and we will be working extremely hard to create the country proud.

Thorough Selection Process

Kirk highlighted the rigorous selection process undertaken by NZR.

The All Blacks are set for a challenging and exciting two seasons ahead and it’s critical we followed a thorough process to find the right head coach. Dave has a clear direction for the team that gives us confidence the team will be well positioned to perform as we head into the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Transition and Future Plans

Rennie will continue to fulfill his commitments with the Kobelco Kobe Steelers in Japan until the conclusion of the Japan Rugby League One competition. He will then return to New Zealand to prepare the All Blacks for a July home series against France, Italy, and Ireland.

NZR will announce the wider All Blacks coaching and management team in the coming weeks.

Dave Rennie’s Coaching History

Dave Rennie brings a wealth of experience to the All Blacks, including:

• Leading the New Zealand Under-20 team to three consecutive Junior World Championships (2008-2010).
• Guiding the Chiefs to back-to-back Super Rugby titles in 2012 and 2013.
• Taking the Glasgow Warriors to a Pro14 Final in 2019.
• Coaching the Wallabies between 2020 and 2023.
• Developing the Kobelco Kobe Steelers into title contenders in Japan Rugby League One.

The appointment of Dave Rennie signals a new era for the All Blacks, blending proven leadership with a commitment to representing the diverse heritage of New Zealand rugby.