Steve Tandy has recently been appointed as the new head coach for the Wales men’s national rugby team, marking a significant shift within the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU). Tandy, who previously served as the defence coach for Scotland under head coach Gregor Townsend, is set to join his homeland team on September 1, 2025, after completing his commitments in Scotland.
The 45-year-old Tandy, who began his professional career as a flanker for Neath and the Ospreys, was under contract with the Scottish Rugby Union until a deal was reached that would allow his transition to Wales. Although the specific duration of Tandy’s contract with the WRU hasn’t been revealed, it is confirmed that he will lead the national team at least until the 2027 World Cup, which will take place in Australia. This extension suggests that WRU views Tandy’s appointment as a strategic move aimed at long-term success for Welsh rugby.
Expressing his thoughts on his new role, Tandy said, “Becoming head coach of my home country is a massive honour and a privilege.” This sentiment resonates with the WRU, which has been searching for a permanent successor to the former head coach Warren Gatland, who stepped down during the Six Nations tournament in February 2025. Matt Sherratt, from Cardiff, temporarily filled the role but the WRU felt a long-term appointment was vital for future success.
Tandy’s inaugural match on November 9, 2025, will be against Argentina in Cardiff, followed by additional autumn internationals against formidable teams such as Japan, New Zealand, and South Africa. His selection as a full-time coach is particularly noteworthy as he is the first homegrown permanent head coach since Gareth Jenkins was dismissed in September 2007.
Welsh rugby is currently in a state of flux, having faced considerable challenges over recent years. At one point, the national team plummeted to 14th place in the world rankings earlier in 2025, although they have since climbed to 12th, still facing the aftereffects of a dismal run of 18 consecutive Test defeats. This series of losses only ended recently with a vital victory against Japan in Kobe.
In addressing the reconstruction of Welsh rugby, Tandy said, “I am looking forward to playing a role in the rebuilding phase of Welsh rugby and taking the national team back to competing with the best countries in the world.” He emphasized the potential residing within the young players and expressed excitement regarding the autumn fixtures as they present an opportunity to compete against top international teams.
Born in Tonmawr and having played professionally for Neath RFC as well as Ospreys, Tandy did not earn caps for the Welsh national team during his playing career but has garnered extensive coaching experience. He managed Ospreys from 2012 to 2018, clinching the Celtic League title in his first season and subsequently took on a role with the Australian team Waratahs before contributing to Scotland’s coaching staff in 2019. Furthermore, he was involved as a defence coach for the British and Irish Lions during their 2021 tour in South Africa.
Abi Tierney, the WRU’s chief executive, stated that Tandy was the “standout candidate” for the head coach position. She articulated the necessity of this appointment as part of their strategy for sustainable success and highlighted Tandy’s potential to connect with a young and promising roster of players.
Additionally, the decision to appoint Tandy was guided by WRU’s new director of rugby, Dave Reddin, who expressed admiration for Tandy’s growth and approach to coaching, reflecting a desire for a collaborative, systematic method for building a successful rugby culture.
While the selection of Tandy has been met with optimism, mixed emotions linger within the Scottish Rugby community. Alex Williams, the Scottish Rugby chief executive, expressed disappointment over Tandy’s departure, acknowledging his contributions and influence on the Scottish team. Scotland’s head coach, Gregor Townsend, also conveyed how impactful Tandy had been and recognized the bittersweet aspect of losing him to Wales, stressing the honor it is for Tandy to lead his national team.
With Tandy taking the helm, Welsh rugby stands on the precipice of a potential revival during these uncertain times. The journey ahead may be challenging, but Tandy’s experience, along with his profound passion for Welsh rugby, might just be the catalyst needed to rekindle the nation’s success on the international stage.
