Overview
- Schmidt confirmed he will not apply for the vacant All Blacks role, citing loyalty to Wallabies players, staff and supporters.
- He will finish his Rugby Australia contract in July then step away and travel to Dublin, with Les Kiss set to take over as Wallabies head coach.
- New Zealand Rugby had sounded him out after Scott Robertson's departure, and attention has shifted to Jamie Joseph and Dave Rennie as leading candidates under NZR's criteria.
- Schmidt said the next All Blacks coach inherits a strong environment, highlighting the depth shown in Super Rugby and a 10-3 Test record in 2025.
- He noted NRL convert Angus Crichton could speed his transition by training with the Wallabies early, though selection calls will be made by Kiss.