Les Kiss Named Wallabies Coach, Succeeds Joe Schmidt in 2026

Les Kiss, currently the Queensland Reds coach and former Ulster director of rugby, has been appointed as the next head coach of the Australian Wallabies, succeeding Joe Schmidt in mid-2026. Schmidt, who originally planned to depart after the 2024 Rugby Championship, has extended his tenure to lead Australia through the British and Irish Lions series and the inaugural Nations Cup before handing over to Kiss. The transition is described as 'orderly', allowing Kiss to finish his commitments with the Reds before taking on the Wallabies role ahead of the 2027 home Rugby World Cup. Kiss and Schmidt have a long professional history, having worked together with Ireland where they achieved notable successes including Six Nations titles. Kiss will become the fifth head coach for Australia in seven years, and the arrangement may see Schmidt remain in a consultancy capacity if invited by Kiss. Both coaches have emphasized their strong relationship and the exciting opportunity this leadership change represents for Australian rugby.