Warren Gatland has stated that he will take time to reflect on his future as head coach of Wales following a disappointing autumn series, which culminated in a 45-12 defeat to
South Africa—marking the team's 12th consecutive loss. The 61-year-old coach expressed his intention to discuss his situation with his family and the
Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) before making any decisions.
The WRU has announced plans to engage two independent experts to conduct an end-of-season review, which will play a crucial role in determining Gatland's future with the team, should he choose not to resign.
Gatland did not dismiss speculation about potentially transitioning to a different role within the WRU, one that would allow him to step back from daily coaching duties while still influencing the broader strategic direction of Welsh rugby. He acknowledged that he had been discussing this possibility with his wife earlier on the day of the match. “There are several important topics to address,” he noted, highlighting the need to discuss strategy and the relationship with regional teams. He pointed out that longstanding issues within the sport had been overlooked during periods of past success.
Question 1: What is Warren Gatland's current position with the Welsh national rugby team?
Warren Gatland is the head coach of the Welsh national rugby team.
Question 2: What recent event has prompted Gatland to reconsider his future?
Gatland is reconsidering his future following Wales's 12th straight defeat, a 45-12 loss to South Africa during the autumn series.
Question 3: What steps is Gatland planning to take before making a decision about his future?
Gatland plans to "let the dust settle" and discuss his future with his family and the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) before making a decision.
Question 4: What potential new role at the WRU has Gatland hinted at?
Gatland has hinted at the possibility of moving into a different role at the WRU that would involve stepping away from day-to-day coaching but allow him to have more influence over the overall strategy for rugby in Wales.
Question 5: What has the WRU committed to in response to the team's performance?
The WRU has committed to bringing in two independent experts to conduct an end-of-season review, which will help determine whether Gatland remains in his position or not.