San Francisco Frontiers - Les Kiss to take over Wallabies coach role from mid-2026

A former Ireland assistant under Schmidt, Kiss is currently coaching Queensland Reds in Super Rugby.

The 60-year-old Australian Kiss was widely considered the frontrunner after NSW Waratahs coach Dan McKellar ruled himself out of the race.

Kiss returned to Australia in 2023 after stints as director of rugby at Irish club Ulster, as head coach of London Irish, and as an assistant coach with the Ireland national team.

He is contracted to the Reds until the end of next year.

"My intention to finish at the end of this year's Rugby Championship has been adjusted to fit with Les's availability," said Schmidt, who has presided over six Test wins and seven defeats since he took over after Eddie Jones' disastrous second stint in charge.

"I think Les is doing a great job with the Reds, so it was important to dovetail with his responsibilities there.

"It has certainly been a privilege to be involved with the Wallabies - the staff and players have worked hard but we all know there's a lot more hard work ahead of us with the British and Irish Lions here in a few months' time."

Kiss will become the fifth Wallabies coach in six years after Michael Cheika, Dave Rennie, Jones and Schmidt, and one that can take them through to the 2027 World Cup, which Australia will host.

"To coach our national team through such an important period, highlighted by a home Rugby World Cup in 2027, is the honour of a lifetime and an opportunity I am truly grateful for," said Kiss.

"Joe and I have a strong relationship and a long history of working together, and I am looking forward to building upon the excellent foundations he has laid with the Wallabies.

"I am thrilled to continue with the Reds for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season before transitioning into the Wallabies environment."

T.Martin--SFF