Following a 14-match winless streak - the latest loss taking place last weekend in Rome - a mutual agreement has been made between Gatland and the WRU for the 61-year-old to depart, with Cardiff Rugby head coach Matt Sherratt taking charge for the remaining fixtures of the 2025 Championship.
Gatland’s first tenure from 2008 to 2019 was marked by unprecedented success, while his return in 2022 came at a time of significant challenges for the sport in Wales.
As Gatland leaves his role as head coach of the Welsh national team, we reflect on the remarkable achievements he has brought to Welsh rugby and beyond.
A record of triumph
During his first stint, Gatland led Wales to three Guinness Men’s Six Nations titles – although technically in charge in 2013, it was Rob Howley who oversaw the team’s title win, with Gatland on British and Irish Lions duty – including three Grand Slams in 2008, 2012, and 2019. His strategic acumen and ability to inspire players transformed the team into a formidable force on the international stage. Under his guidance, Wales not only reached the semi-finals of the 2011 and 2019 Rugby World Cups but also achieved a remarkable win rate of over 70% in the Six Nations.
Gatland’s coaching philosophy emphasised resilience, teamwork, and a strong work ethic – qualities that often resonated deeply with his players.
Additionally, Gatland's success extended beyond the Welsh team; he also made a significant impact with the British and Irish Lions. Leading the Lions on three tours – 2013 to Australia, 2017 to New Zealand, and 2021 to South Africa, while an assistant coach in 2009 – he secured a 2-1 series victory against the Wallabies in 2013 and drew the series against the All Blacks in 2017. His ability to unite players from different nations under a common goal underlined his exceptional leadership skills.
Return to New Zealand
After his first tenure with Wales, Gatland returned to New Zealand to coach the Chiefs in Super Rugby from 2020 to 2022. His time there was mixed: while he brought experience and a strong tactical approach, the Chiefs struggled to consistently perform at the top level, finishing mid-table in the Super Rugby standings. Despite this, Gatland's leadership was instrumental in developing younger players and maintaining a competitive environment.
During this period, he also led the British and Irish Lions on their 2021 tour to South Africa, which was played behind closed doors and ended in a 2-1 defeat.
Navigating a new landscape
Upon his return in December 2022, Gatland faced a vastly different challenge. Player retirements, injuries, and a shifting rugby environment tested his adaptability and leadership. Despite these hurdles, he remained committed to revitalising Welsh rugby, focusing on nurturing young talent with no depth of experience to lean on.
Given the travails of Welsh rugby upon his return, there was perhaps no bigger task in world rugby, and even a man of Gatland’s calibre had his work cut out for him. Despite these challenges, Gatland took Wales to the 2023 World Cup quarter-final, but when the last vestiges of his previous reign in Wales retired afterwards, the challenge only became greater with an extremely youthful cohort of players to choose from.
A Championship wooden spoon ensued in 2024, and a record losing streak brought with it huge public angst.
A lasting impact
Gatland’s influence extends beyond statistics and titles. In his first tenure, along with his assistant coaches such as Shaun Edwards (defence), Robin McBryde (forwards) and Rob Howley (attack), he fostered a culture of excellence within Welsh rugby, leaving a legacy that should still inspire future generations.
Gatland’s contributions to Welsh rugby and the Six Nations Championship will ultimately be remembered with admiration. His first tenure was characterised by unforgettable moments, and a commitment to the values of rugby that resonate deeply with supporters. He often speaks of the importance of "family first", which has endeared him to many of his players and staff members down the years.
While the immediate future of the Welsh national team may be uncertain, the foundation laid by Gatland will continue to influence the team for years to come.
Gatland the player
Hamilton-born Gatland was a hooker and had a notable provincial career with Waikato, for whom he made 140 appearances (a record at the time). Although he played 17 matches for the All Blacks between 1988 and 1991, he never earned a Test cap due to the dominance of Sean Fitzpatrick in the position – replacements being a rare thing during those years. His experiences with the All Blacks, particularly sitting on the bench during tours, significantly shaped his coaching philosophy later on.
Coaching career before Wales
Gatland began his coaching career as a player-coach for Taupiri in 1989. After a brief stint in New Zealand, he moved to Ireland, where he served as player-coach for Galwegians RFC, leading them to promotion in the All-Ireland League. He then returned to New Zealand to become an assistant coach for Thames Valley, helping them achieve promotion in the National Provincial Championship.
In 1996, Gatland took on the role of director of rugby at Connacht, where he led the team to the quarter-finals of the European Challenge Cup. His success in Ireland led to his appointment as head coach of the Ireland national team from 1998 to 2001, where he improved the team's ranking and secured notable victories, including a historic win over France in Paris. That victory was equally notable for being the Test debut of Brian O’Driscoll, who scored a hat-trick.
After his time with Ireland, Gatland moved to England to coach London Wasps, where he enjoyed significant success, winning three Premiership titles and the Heineken Cup. He later returned to New Zealand to coach Waikato, winning the Air New Zealand Cup in 2006, and served as a technical advisor for the Chiefs.
