Joe Schmidt will leave his position as Head Coach of the Irish Rugby team at the conclusion of next year’s World Cup in Japan to prioritise‘family commitments”.
Schmidt’s announcement comes off the back of a historic night for Ireland as they were awarded team of the year at the World Rugby award last night with Johnny Sexton picking up Player of the Year.
Schmidt was awarded Coach of the Year after guiding Ireland to a Grand Slam, a series victory in Australia and a first win over New Zealand on home soil.
Head Coach Joe Schmidt
Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Tommy Dickson
Current assistant coach Andy Farrell will take succeed Schmidt after next year’s World Cup. He was high in praise for the work Schmidt has put in over the last number of years.
Schmidt has won three Six Nations titles since his appointment in 2013 whilst guiding Ireland to a first ever win over the All Blacks in 2016 whilst also securing a first ever win over the Springboks in South Africa.
Schmidt said on his decision;
“I feel that Irish Rugby is in good hands. The management and players have been incredible to work with and the tremendous support we have had, particularly at home in the Aviva Stadium, but wherever we have
travelled has been uplifting.”“Thank you to the IRFU for their support and patience and thanks also to so many people who have adopted my family and me, making us feel part of the community here in Ireland.
Under Schmidt Ireland have become one of the best sides in the World and should they repeat this
IRFU Director of Performance David Nucifora said,
IRFU CEO Philip Browne also spoke after the announcement.
Upon the announcement, Schmidt has been universally praised for his contribution to Irish Rugby.
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