Scott Robertson: 'I am gutted by this outcome'
REACTION: Scott Robertson has issued his own statement after he was sacked two years into his four-year All Black contract following a 2025 end-of-season review.
The review, which involved NZR president David Kirk, former All Black hooker Keven Mealamu and former NZR high performance manager Don Tricker, reportedly revealed significant criticism of Robertson’s leadership from the playing group.
In Robertson’s statement on Thursday, he said he felt he was building for the future and was “gutted” to step aside.
“Coaching the All Blacks has been the honour of my life. I am incredibly proud of what this team has achieved and of the progress we have made,” he said.
“We have brought through a talented group of young players, strengthened the depth across the squad, and set solid foundations for the years ahead.
“Following the end-of-year review, I have taken time to reflect on some of the feedback. My priority has always been the success of the All Blacks and, after discussions with New Zealand Rugby, I believe it is in the best interests of the team for me to step aside.
“I have therefore reached an agreement with New Zealand Rugby to end my contract early so a new coaching group has the time it needs to prepare and take the team into the next World Cup.
“As you can imagine, I am gutted by this outcome. I care deeply about this team.
“Given the sensitivity of this situation, I will not be making any further comment.”
The All Blacks posted 20 wins against seven losses under Robertson, who was controversially announced as Ian Foster’s successor before the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
His appointment was greeted with much fanfare after he led the Crusaders to seven consecutive Super Rugby titles with a reputation as a forward-thinking leader who had strong support from his players.
He endeared himself to fans with his winning record and his habit of break dancing on the pitch after his team’s title wins.
But under his leadership, the All Blacks have been in a spin.
Robertson lost two of his assistant coaches in his first two years, with Leon MacDonald and Jason Holland quitting, citing differences with the head coach.
Robertson claimed last year that his authority had been undermined, telling the New Zealand Herald that his assistant, Scott Hansen, “effectively operates in the role most would recognise as the head coach”.
But Chris Lendrum, New Zealand Rugby’s professional rugby and performance general manager, said the comments were taken “out of context”.
Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph, the former Japan coach, or former Australia coach Dave Rennie could be potential successors to oversee a packed Test calendar in 2026 in the run-up to the World Cup.
The All Blacks travel to South Africa for an eight-match tour in August and September, playing the Springboks four times.
They also host France, Italy and Ireland in the Nations Cup in July, then play Australia home and away in the Bledisloe Cup before travelling to Europe in November for more Nations Cup matches.
Additional reporting by AFP and AAP
