Gatland to stay on as Wales head coach for Six Nations

Head coach Warren Gatland will remain in charge of the Wales team for the 2025 Six Nations campaign, with the WRU’s top boss admitting his job is “on the line”.

New Zealander Gatland returned for a second spell as Wales coach in 2023, but results have not gone in his favour – with Wales currently on a record-breaking 12-game losing streak.

During his first spell in charge between 2008 and 2019, Wales won the Six Nations four times – including three Grand Slams – as well as reaching the World Cup semi-finals twice in what was a golden era for Welsh rugby.

Following a review of the national team’s recent performance, Abi Tierney, CEO of the WRU, said keeping Gatland is “the best approach” – but said a further performance assessment will be held after the upcoming Six Nations campaign.

Ms Tierney admitted wholesale changes had been considered, but said Gatland is “more than up for the challenge”.

“I have had a number of very honest conversations with Warren and I will make no secret of the fact that his position was on the line as we undertook our review,” said Ms Tierney.

“Further than that, like any head coach in any sport, he knows the security of his position is directly related to the performances of the team and that this is a situation that will continue to intensify.

“There is a tough challenge ahead but Warren is more than up for that challenge. We also believe he is equal to it.

“In addition, we are also taking immediate steps to build and evolve the team behind the team in a way that makes a significant and positive impact ahead of the 2025 championship.”

‘Looking forward to the challenge ahead’

Gatland, who has led the British and Irish Lions in three tours, said: “I’ve been pretty honest in terms of welcoming scrutiny and challenge, as well as that I understand the pressures of international rugby with performances and results.

“I am pleased to have the support of Abi and the board to take the squad into the Six Nations.

“This group of players has a huge amount of potential and we will be working incredibly hard together to turnaround our fortunes on the pitch. We know, more than ever, we will be judged on competitiveness, on success and on winning during the 2025 campaign.”

Gatland continued: “During the review I had the opportunity to explain my thinking, but I also appreciate the feedback and constructive challenge that has been put to me.

“I’d like to thank the players in particular for their involvement and their honesty. I am looking forward to the challenge ahead.”