Gatland spared the axe

NEWS: Warren Gatland will remain on as Wales head coach for the 2025 Six Nations.

This follows CEO Abi Tierney’s review of national squad performances under Gatland’s second tenure in charge to date.

Tierney presented findings of a meticulous and far-reaching review into the high-performance element of the senior men’s game in Wales to the WRU Board on Tuesday 17th December.

Tierney admitted that elements of the review make difficult reading for incumbents and the WRU Board seriously considered more wholesale immediate change, but instead concluded that challenging their current highly experienced and decorated head coach to change Wales’s fortunes on the pitch was the best approach at this time.

“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.

“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.

Gatland added: “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 turn around 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.

“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.”