Les Kiss is reportedly set to be confirmed as Australia head coach Joe Schmidt’s successor this week, but will only take charge after next year’s Super Rugby campaign.
According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Rugby Australia will unveil Kiss as the next Wallabies boss on Wednesday. However, the 60-year-old will stay with the Reds through 2025 before stepping into the national role mid-2026.
As part of the transition, Schmidt will continue leading Australia through the end-of-year tour and the first half of next season. The Wallabies are scheduled to face Japan, England, Italy, Ireland and France later this year.
MORE: Season over for All Blacks centre
Schmidt, who had initially planned to step away after the Rugby Championship, has agreed to extend his tenure by eight months.
Negotiations over Kiss’ appointment were complicated by his contract with Queensland Rugby Union, but the Reds are understood to be pleased he will remain for one more campaign without the need for financial compensation.
Kiss is expected to address the media in Sydney on Wednesday before linking up with the Reds ahead of Saturday’s clash against the Fijian Drua.
Photo: Clive Rose/Getty Images
