Kiwi rugby coach Joe Schmidt appears to be removing his name from the race to become the next All Blacks coach after making a shock announcement this morning.
Schmidt, fresh off winning the World Rugby Coach of the Year award after a stunning year with Ireland, revealed he plans to "finish coaching" after next year’s World Cup in Japan.
His decision to step away from the head coaching role in Ireland was expected but news he’s decided to "prioritise family commitments after the RWC in 2019", and thus end any potential chances of taking over the All Blacks, comes as a big surprise.
His stock was significantly improved even prior to yesterday’s award win in Monte Carlo after he guided Ireland to a famous 16-9 win against the All Blacks in Dublin.
But Schmidt said he’s ready to step away from the game.
"The management and players have been incredible to work with and the tremendous support we have had, particularly at home in the Aviva, but where ever we have travelled has been uplifting," said Schmidt.
"Thank you to the IRFU for their support and patience and thanks also to so many people who have adopted my family and me, making us feel part of the community here in Ireland.
"There are some inspiring challenges over the next 11 months so there's plenty of motivation for me to continue working hard, alongside the other management staff, so that the team can be as competitive as possible."
Schmidt has overseen the most successful period of Irish Rugby in history, claiming three Six Nations titles (2014, 2015, 2018) including a Grand Slam this year.
He also coached Ireland to their first win on South African soil (2016), their first Test series win over Australia since 1979 and their first win against the All Blacks (2016).
Andy Farrell will become Ireland’s next head coach after the World Cup
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