Steve Tandy Named New Wales Rugby Head Coach in Bold WRU Overhaul
- Admin
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
In a significant move aimed at revitalizing Welsh rugby, the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has officially announced Steve Tandy as the new head coach of the national men’s team. The decision marks the end of an intensive five-month search to replace Warren Gatland, who stepped down during this year’s Six Nations campaign.
Tandy, 45, brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to Welsh rugby. A former Ospreys head coach and current Scotland defence coach, he will assume his new position in September just ahead of Wales’ challenging autumn series against Argentina, Japan, New Zealand, and South Africa.
“Becoming head coach of my home country is a massive honour and privilege,” Tandy said in his first statement following the announcement. “I’m excited to lead this team into a new era and help rebuild Welsh rugby so it can again compete with the very best in the world.”
Tandy, who played over 100 games for the Ospreys before moving into coaching, guided the region to a Pro12 title in 2012 in his first season at the helm. After leaving the Ospreys in 2018, he expanded his coaching portfolio internationally first with the Waratahs in Australia and then with Scotland, where he played a key role in their defensive improvement under Gregor Townsend.
He also coached with the British & Irish Lions during their 2021 tour of South Africa, further solidifying his reputation as one of rugby’s top tacticians.
Tandy's appointment is part of the WRU’s broader five-year strategy to re-establish Wales as a global rugby powerhouse. He is reported to have signed a long-term contract extending beyond the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
“This is a keystone appointment,” said WRU CEO Abi Tierney. “Steve stood out as the best candidate during a rigorous search. His ability to connect with young talent, his strategic mindset, and his deep Welsh roots make him the right leader to guide us through this critical rebuilding phase.”
Dave Reddin, newly appointed Director of Rugby and Elite Performance at the WRU and the man behind the final decision, emphasized Tandy’s systemic, collaborative approach.
“Steve’s coaching journey and his commitment to learning and evolution really impressed us,” Reddin noted. “He brings not only elite-level experience but also an understanding of the cultural heartbeat of Welsh rugby.”
While the full coaching team has not been officially announced, sources indicate that several members of the interim staff who led Wales during their summer tour of Japan including Matt Sherratt, Danny Wilson, Gethin Jenkins, T. Rhys Thomas, Adam Jones, and Leigh Halfpenny could be retained.
Sherratt had temporarily taken over after Gatland’s departure and successfully broke an 18-match winless streak with a victory over Japan in Kobe.
Tandy’s appointment has generated reactions from across the rugby community. Alex Williamson, Chief Executive of Scottish Rugby, expressed pride and admiration for Tandy’s contributions.
“Steve is an extremely talented and respected coach,” Williamson said. “Though we are disappointed to see him go, we are proud that he now has the opportunity to lead his home nation. His impact on Scottish rugby since 2020 has been immeasurable.”
Scottish Rugby confirmed they are working on appointing Tandy’s successor before the Quilter Nations Series begins in November.
Tandy’s first major challenge will be the upcoming autumn internationals, providing him with a trial by fire against four top-tier rugby nations. His focus, however, is clear: rebuilding the national team with an eye on long-term success and sustainability.
“I’m excited about the group of young, hardworking players we have,” said Tandy. “This is a huge opportunity for us to test ourselves, grow, and take Welsh rugby back to where it belongs at the top of the world game.”
As Wales steps into this new era, fans, players, and the rugby community alike will be watching closely to see how Steve Tandy reshapes the team’s identity and direction.
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