Schmidt to step down as Wallabies head coach after Rugby Championship

Schmidt's previous deal was set to run out after the three-Test series against the British and Irish Lions, which will take place between July and August.

However, his short contract extension means that he will lead the Wallabies through their Rugby Championship campaign between August and October before stepping down.

Schmidt took charge of Australia in 2023, replacing Eddie Jones as head coach, but endured a disappointing Rugby Championship in 2024, with his side finishing bottom of the table.

The Wallabies then won two and lost two of their Tests in November, narrowly missing out on a victory against Ireland in their last outing.

Joe extends his commitment to the WallabiesA process will now commence to recruit our next Head Coach.#Wallabies pic.twitter.com/IiuATxo1ec

— Wallabies (@wallabies) February 6, 2025

"I am very much enjoying my time with Australian Rugby," Schmidt said.

"The British and Irish Lions is our immediate focus but, with the Rugby Championship following so closely after the Lions Series, I understand the need for continuity heading into two away Test matches against South Africa."

Australia's director of high performance, Peter Horne, also confirmed that Schmidt "made it clear" he wanted to spend more time with his family, ruling him out of a longer-term contract that could have seen him take charge at the 2027 World Cup.