Warren Gatland commits to Wales until after 2019
New Zealander will remain as head coach for next two World Cups
New Zealander Warren Gatland has extended his contract as head coach of Wales until after the 2019 World Cup, the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) said on Monday.
The 50-year-old former Ireland and Wasps coach took up the post in 2007 and has since led Wales to Six Nations success in 2008, last year and this year, as well as a semi-final place at the 2011 World Cup.
“I am proud and delighted to have been chosen by the Welsh Rugby Union to take charge of Wales teams for the next two Rugby World Cup tournaments,” Gatland said.
I know the other major rugby nations take us seriously as opponents who can play excellent rugby and that inspires me to take this group of players even further
“I have chosen to stay in Wales because of my confidence in the players we have, the coaching structures we have developed and the succession plan of talent we now constantly update.”
Gatland also oversaw the British & Irish Lions’ successful tour of Australia earlier this year, which was their first series win in Australia for 16 years.
He was named UK Coach of the Year at the this year UK Coaching Awards and on Sunday won the award for Coach of the Year at the prestigious BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards.
“I know the other major rugby nations take us seriously as opponents who can play excellent rugby and that inspires me to take this group of players even further,” Gatland said.
“There is an incredible amount of hard work ahead but, with the backing of the Welsh Rugby Union, the national squad now has the means to deliver what the Welsh public want.”