Steve Tandy takes on the challenge: Wales seeks to resurge in world rugby

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Steve Tandy Takes the Helm of Wales with Ambition

Steve Tandy, the new head coach of Wales, has expressed his determination to restore national pride in the team, following a period of decline in the world rugby rankings. Tandy, originally from Tonmawr and a former player and coach for the Ospreys, returns to Wales after six years as Scotland’s defense coach. This appointment marks a milestone, as he is the first Welshman to lead the national team since 2007. The Welsh team is currently ranked number 12 in the world, and prior to their victory against Japan last month, they had accumulated 17 consecutive losses. This victory, under the interim leadership of Matt Sherratt, was crucial.

The privilege and honor of being the head coach of your country is enormous. I have great pride as a sense of family and what a great rugby nation is.

Steve Tandy
Steve Tandy, nuevo entrenador de Gales
Wales, which reached the semi-finals of the 2019 World Cup under the direction of Warren Gatland, also managed to win the Six Nations in 2021 with Wayne Pivac as coach. However, the team’s performance declined rapidly, and Gatland’s return failed to reverse the situation, culminating in his departure during the 2025 Six Nations. The Welsh Rugby Union aims for the team to be ranked among the top five in the world by 2029.

I believe in the talent we have in Wales to take us where we want to go. There will be no magic wand or quick fix, but I believe in the path.

Steve Tandy
Tandy emphasizes the need to consistently build performances and improve in each campaign, leveraging the talent of the current group. During his time at the Ospreys, Tandy won the Pro12 competition. Before returning to Wales, he worked at the NSW Waratahs in Australia and then as a defense coach on the British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa in 2021, under Gatland.
  • Andy Farrell could return as coach of the British and Irish Lions.
  • Richie Mo’unga will return to New Zealand.
  • Wallabies star David Porecki announces his retirement from rugby.

The only thing that has really driven me from the start is that I want to be the best person and the best coach possible.

Steve Tandy
Tandy will take up his position on September 1st and will prepare for the home matches against Argentina, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa. He will work with Dave Reddin, WRU’s performance director, to form his technical team.
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