Les Kiss previously served as Ireland’s defence coach, later joining Joe Schmidt’s backroom staff as his assistant.
Les Kiss is set to succeed Joe Schmidt as Australia head coach in 2026, leading the Wallabies at the home Rugby World Cup the following year.
Schmidt will continue to oversee the Wallabies through the upcoming Test series against the British and Irish Lions and the Rugby Championship, before guiding the squad in the inaugural Nations Cup next year.
Kiss, who was Schmidt’s assistant coach with Ireland, will remain in his role as Queensland Reds head coach until the middle of 2026. Rugby Australia has indicated there will be an “orderly transfer” of leadership at that point.
Kiss, an Australian who will become the fifth Wallabies head coach in seven years, commented that leading his country at a home World Cup would be the “honour of a lifetime”.
“This is an exciting era for Australian rugby, and I am humbled by the chance to serve as Wallabies head coach from next year,” the 60-year-old said.
Kiss, who has also served as director of rugby at Ulster and as head coach of London Irish, added: “Joe and I share a strong working relationship and a history of collaboration. I look forward to building on the solid groundwork he has established with the Wallabies.”
“I am eager to continue with the Reds through the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season before making the transition to the Wallabies. Coaching the national team during such a pivotal period, culminating in a World Cup on home soil in 2027, is an immense privilege.”
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Initially, Schmidt had planned to step down in October after the Rugby Championship. However, he has now extended his tenure to ensure a smooth transition for Kiss.
The former Ireland head coach took over from Eddie Jones in 2023, following a turbulent spell for the Wallabies.
Michael Cheika stepped down after Australia’s quarter-final loss to England at the 2019 World Cup, with Dave Rennie subsequently dismissed ahead of the 2023 tournament.
Eddie Jones returned for a second spell on a five-year contract before the tournament, but his tenure lasted just nine months as the Wallabies exited the World Cup in the pool stage for the first time in their history.
“I intended to finish after this year’s Rugby Championship, but have adjusted my plans to suit Les’ availability,” said Schmidt, who has led Australia to six victories in 13 matches.
“He’s doing an excellent job with the Reds, so it was important our timelines aligned.
“It has been a privilege to work with the Wallabies. The players and staff have been committed, although there remains considerable work ahead, especially with the British and Irish Lions tour approaching.”
“Extending my stay until July means I’ll spend more time with my family in Sydney, allowing for a better balance.”