• Scott Robertson has stepped down as head coach of the All Blacks after an internal review.
• The dismissal comes less than two years before the next Rugby World Cup.
• Robertson expressed pride in the progress made but accepted the decision was in the team's best interest.
• The All Blacks will begin a search for a new head coach immediately.

Scott Robertson has been dismissed as the head coach of New Zealand following an internal review that scrutinized the All Blacks' performance under his leadership. Appointed after the 2023 World Cup, Robertson led the team to 10 wins out of 13 Tests in the 2025 season. However, the team came under significant pressure following a historic away loss to Argentina and a substantial 43-10 defeat to South Africa, prompting concerns about team morale and performance, according to Reuters and South China Morning Post.

The internal review revealed dissatisfaction among senior players, contributing to speculation about a potential player revolt, particularly surrounding star athlete Ardie Savea. New Zealand Rugby Chair David Kirk remarked on the timing of the decision, asserting that the midpoint in the Rugby World Cup cycle was appropriate for a review of team performance and the way forward. He noted, “Both NZR and Scott agree it is in the best interests of the team that he depart his role as head coach," according to BBC and South China Morning Post.

Robertson expressed being "gutted" over the dismissal but took pride in the achievements during his tenure, including developing younger players and strengthening squad depth. He stated, “Coaching the All Blacks has been the honour of my life,” highlighting his commitment to team success. Concurrently, he acknowledged the necessity for a change in leadership as the All Blacks prepare for a demanding schedule leading to the next World Cup in 2027, according to Reuters and BBC.

With Robertson’s departure, New Zealand Rugby will immediately initiate a search for a new head coach. Possible contenders for the role include former Japan coach Jamie Joseph and ex-Australia coach Dave Rennie, especially as the All Blacks prepare for a challenging calendar in 2026, which includes matches against top-tier teams like France and Australia, according to South China Morning Post and BBC.