Gatland leaves Wales role partway through Six Nations

Wales were thrashed 43-0 by France on the opening matchday of this year's championship, and they followed that result by losing 22-15 in Italy on Saturday.

That was the team's 14th consecutive Test defeat, the worst run in their 144-year international rugby history.

Gatland, who had signed a contract to run until the 2027 World Cup, has subsequently left the position for a second time, having previously led Wales from 2007 to 2019.

In a statement, Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) chief executive Abi Tierney said: "The WRU and Warren have agreed that making this change now is in the best interests of the Wales squad as it continues to compete in the 2025 Six Nations tournament.

"We are grateful to Warren for all he has done for the game in Wales. He remains our longest-serving and most decorated head coach in terms of the silverware he has won."

Tierney also confirmed Cardiff head coach Matt Sherratt will take over as interim coach for the final three games of the championship, starting against Ireland on February 22.

𝘿𝙞𝙤𝙡𝙘𝙝 𝙒𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙚𝙣 Warren Gatland’s second tenure as Wales head coach has ended by mutual agreement.

— Welsh Rugby Union (@WelshRugbyUnion) February 11, 2025

"Matt Sherratt takes over at a pivotal time. It is a credit to him that he has not hesitated to answer Wales' call and is also testament to the strong relationship that now exists throughout the Welsh professional game that Cardiff Rugby are fully supportive of the move," she added.

"Matt will return to Cardiff Rugby after the Six Nations in order to concentrate his efforts on what is already a promising campaign for our capital club.

"Our intention is to have a permanent appointment in place before this summer's two-Test tour to Japan, with all options open."

Gatland led Wales to four Six Nations championship triumphs – including Grand Slam wins in 2008 and 2012 – during his first spell in charge.

However, his second stint has not gone to plan, with Wales' current eight-game losing streak in the Six Nations the longest in their history.