Steve Tandy Appointed Wales Head Coach in Landmark WRU Move
Steve Tandy has officially been named the new head coach of the Welsh national rugby team, marking a major shift in the direction of Welsh rugby.
After months of speculation and a drawn-out appointment process, the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) confirmed the news earlier today.
And with that, a new era begins. The 45-year-old Welshman, currently serving as Scotland’s defence coach, will take over the reins from 1st September. Tandy replaces Warren Gatland, who stepped down mid-Six Nations earlier this year.
Cardiff’s Matt Sherratt temporarily filled the void, ending a demoralising 18-match winless streak with a morale-boosting win over Japan in Kobe.
Now, the rebuild begins. And it’s one the WRU believe they’ve got the right man for. “Becoming head coach of my home country is a massive honour and a privilege,” said Tandy.
“I am looking forward to playing a role in the rebuilding phase of Welsh rugby and taking the national team back to competing with the best countries in the world.”
“I am excited about the potential of Welsh rugby and the group of young, hardworking players we have.”
Tandy’s appointment comes with a long-term vision in mind—his contract extends beyond the 2027 World Cup. And the WRU are banking on his experience and passion to carry the national side through what many agree is a critical rebuilding phase.
He’s no stranger to Welsh rugby fans. A Tonmawr native and former Ospreys flanker, Tandy made over 100 appearances as a player before turning to coaching. In 2012, he took over as head coach of the Ospreys, leading them to a stunning Pro12 victory in his first season.
“We are delighted to appoint Steve as the new Wales head coach,” said WRU CEO Abi Tierney.
“After a thorough and detailed appointment process. Steve emerged as the standout candidate, and we know we have secured the very best coach for the job.”
“Steve fits the bill in terms of the affinity he will be able to create with a young group of players with huge potential, but also the galvanising effect we know he can have on the whole rugby ecosystem as a proud Welshman.”
There’s no official word yet on assistant coaches, but insiders suggest much of the team that led Wales in Japan may be retained.
Tandy’s coaching CV also includes a stint with the British and Irish Lions in South Africa in 2021 and a successful tenure with Scotland, who became one of the top defensive sides under his watch.
Dave Reddin, the WRU’s new director of rugby and elite performance, was pivotal in the appointment and is confident in Tandy’s long-term potential.
“Steve’s coaching journey and the approach he has taken to his own learning and development since leaving the Ospreys really impressed us during the interview process,” said Reddin.
“He brings a wealth of experience, a unique understanding of Wales and the young talent we have at our disposal and a huge amount of passion and desire to excel in the role.”
Reactions from Scotland have been mixed—pride in Tandy’s achievement, but disappointment at losing him. “Steve is an extremely popular and talented coach,” said Scottish Rugby CEO Alex Williamson.
“We are disappointed that he is leaving… but we are also very proud of his achievements and the opportunity he now has to lead the country of his birth.”
Gregor Townsend echoed the sentiment: “He’s had a really positive influence on Scottish Rugby. He has helped me massively in my role… It’ll be sad not having him with us anymore but it’s also a massive honour for him.”
Tandy’s first matches in charge will be no small task—Wales are set to face Argentina, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa in the autumn series. That’s a baptism by fire for any coach, but especially one taking the reins in such a transitional period.
He’s expected to bring structure. Stability. Perhaps even success.
And judging by the fan reaction, Wales is behind him: “Congratulations to Steve Tandy. Now let’s see how much support the WRU and the Welsh public give him. He’s got mine.” “Fantastic appointment and great to see the resilience and outcome.”
A new dawn for Welsh rugby begins in September. All eyes now turn to the autumn fixtures—and to Tandy, the man tasked with breathing new life into a proud rugby nation.
