Former All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson is set to make a quick return to high-level rugby as he has been appointed head coach of the Barbarians for their highly anticipated northern hemisphere tour this June. Robertson, who concluded his two-year term with the All Blacks in January, will lead the invitational side in two significant matches: against world champions South Africa in Port Elizabeth on June 20 and against Wales at Twickenham Stadium on June 27.
“The Barbarians brings the rugby world together, so it’s special to be a part of it and to honour the jersey,” Robertson expressed, highlighting the unique spirit of the Barbarians.
At 51, Robertson remains one of the most coveted coaches in the sport, having achieved an impressive feat of winning seven consecutive Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders from 2017 to 2023. His experience is further underscored by his previous stints coaching the Barbarians on four occasions.
Despite New Zealand Rugby implementing a non-compete clause in Robertson’s exit agreement, which restricts him from taking over as head coach for a top-tier Test rival until early 2027, there are reports suggesting that he may assume another international coaching role sooner if that nation wraps up its 2026 fixtures against New Zealand.
Robertson has made his aspirations known, expressing a desire to win the Rugby World Cup both with New Zealand and another nation, ensuring that his long-term prospects remain a topic of interest and speculation in the rugby community. He will collaborate with Argentina’s head coach Felipe Contepomi as they prepare for the upcoming Barbarians matches.
This development not only marks an exciting chapter in Robertson’s career but also promotes a unifying spirit in rugby as the Barbarians continue to attract premier coaching talents and foster international competition.