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Warren Gatland has said “a big thank you” to Welsh rugby fans after his second spell in charge of the national team came to an end.

Gatland, who is Wales’ longest-serving and most decorated head coach, departs following Saturday’s Six Nations defeat to Italy – Wales’ 14th consecutive loss.

Cardiff Rugby coach Matt Sherratt has been appointed as Gatland’s successor for the final three matches of the campaign, with games against Ireland, Scotland and England to come.

In his departing message to fans, Gatland said: “We have worked hard, we have a talented young squad that is developing and have been desperate to turn potential into results, but now is the right time for a change.

“I’ve reached the end of this particular chapter, but I remain grateful to all those in Wales who have supported me, to all the players who have played for me and to all those around me, especially my management team, who have contributed to what we have achieved over the years.

“I wish whoever takes over all the best for the future.

“Finally, I want to say a big thank you to the Welsh fans.”

Gatland also thanked the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) board “for the faith shown in me after a tough campaign throughout 2024 and affording me the time and resource to try to turn things around for this 2025 tournament”.

Gatland was first appointed Wales coach at the end of 2007 following a group stage exit at that year’s world cup. He began his first spell in charge by making an instant impact – winning the Grand Slam in 2008.

He went on to win a total of four Six Nations titles – including three Grand Slams – during his first spell and reached two World Cup semi-finals.

The New Zealander left after the 2019 World Cup in Japan, but returned ahead of the 2023 Six Nations following the departure of his successor and compatriot, Wayne Pivac.

However, the second coming of Gatland did not prove as successful. By the time he returned, a golden generation of talent had been replaced by younger, less experienced players who were unable to achieve results under Gatland’s stewardship.

‘Best interests’

According to the WRU, Gatland reached out to its CEO, Abi Tierney, to discuss his future following the defeat in Rome.

Ms Tierney, who admitted before the current Six Nations campaign that Gatland’s job had been on the line due to a disappointing run of results, said: “The WRU and Warren have agreed that making this change now is in the best interests of the Wales squad as it continues to compete in the 2025 Six Nations tournament.”

She continued: “We are grateful to Warren for all he has done for the game in Wales. He remains our longest-serving and most decorated head coach in terms of the silverware he has won.”

Incoming boss Sherratt is set to return to Cardiff Rugby after this Six Nations campaign, but Ms Tierney said the WRU intends to have a permanent successor in place before Wales tour Japan in the summer – with “all options open”.