Cardiff name Van Zyl as permanent head coach
NEWS: Cardiff have appointed Corniel van Zyl as the new permanent head coach, with the South African signing a long-term deal.
Van Zyl joined the Blue and Blacks as a forwards coach in 2024 and stepped up following the departure of Matt Sherratt to Wales.
Under van Zyl’s leadership, Cardiff have enjoyed an 89 percent win ratio at the Arms Park, seen the continued development of a new group of players, and stand on the verge of the United Rugby Championship play-offs.
He has now been given the head coach role permanently and is relishing the challenge ahead. Van Zyl said: “It is such an honour and privilege to take the lead at Cardiff as we enter our 150th season. It is a club full of history and with a very exciting future ahead.
“I am very thankful for the opportunity and challenge that lies ahead and grateful to Jamie and the board for their backing.
“The mission is very simple – to improve every aspect of Cardiff Rugby. From all departments, resources, staff, and players, we want to continue growing, focusing on the finer details and margins to ensure we keep progressing in the right direction.
“We talk a lot about fight, enjoyment, and growth, and ultimately, we want to keep building on those behaviours. We will keep on fighting, endeavour to play an enjoyable brand of rugby, and grow from match to match and season to season.
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“On a personal level, I absolutely love the club. It is an environment with so many people – staff, players, sponsors, and supporters – that care deeply about the badge. That is my motivation to keep driving us forward.
“My family is very settled here in Cardiff. It is a family-focused club within an amazing city and country. We are very pleased to be staying long-term with this opportunity and are excited by the future at the Arms Park.”
The 47-year-old enjoyed an illustrious playing career, making more than 150 appearances for Benetton and qualifying for residency to represent Italy.
Since retiring in 2015, van Zyl has amassed a wealth of experience with stints as forwards coach at the Cheetahs, London Irish, and Ealing Trailfinders.
Having impressed with his coaching ability, leadership, and attention to detail throughout the 2025-26 season to date, he has been given the reins long-term.
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