Queensland Reds boss to take over in mid-2026 after Joe Schmidt’s extended tenure, ensuring a smooth transition before the home World Cup.

Former rugby league international Les Kiss will succeed Joe Schmidt as Wallabies coach but will not take charge until next year after the New Zealander agreed to extend his reign by another nine months,

Les Kiss will take over as Wallabies head coach from Joe Schmidt next year as Australia finetunes for the 2027 Rugby World Cup it is hosting. Rugby Australia announced the appointment Wednesday, saying it provides an “orderly transfer” from Schmidt to Kiss between the British and Irish Lions tour this year and the next World Cup.