Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend signs three-year contract extension to 2026 | Rugby Union News

Gregor Townsend, Scotland head coach since 2017, has signed a brand new contract by to April 2026; Townsend’s present contract was set to run out after the 2023 Rugby World Cup in September/October; Scotland have overwhelmed England 4 occasions within the final six years, drawing one other Take a look at

Gregor Townsend has prolonged his spell as Scotland head coach till 2026, having been head coach since 2017

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has signed a contract extension till April 2026.

The 50-year-old’s deal was as a result of expire after the World Cup in France later this yr and there had been hypothesis the Scottish Rugby Union could also be seeking to substitute him.

Nevertheless, following an encouraging Six Nations marketing campaign wherein the Scots completed third, Townsend – who took cost in 2017 – will stay on the helm for one more three years a minimum of.

Scottish Rugby chief govt Mark Dodson stated: “Gregor Townsend has been probably the most profitable Scotland coach within the historical past of the skilled period and we imagine he’s the appropriate man to steer the nationwide workforce past this yr’s Rugby World Cup.

Scotland, beneath Townsend, have overwhelmed England in 4 of the final six years, drawing one other, however have did not correctly problem for the Six Nations title

“What Gregor has constructed during the last six years of his tenure has taken Scotland to fifth on the earth rankings and we’re eager to maintain that continuity and ahead momentum.

“The squad has unparalleled depth which is the results of a few years deliberate improvement.

“We imagine he’s finest positioned to take the workforce to the following degree and proceed to excite and have interaction the individuals of Scotland.”

Townsend has needed to take care of persona clashes with playmaker Finn Russell throughout his reign

Townsend added: “Being head coach of Scotland is an incredible honour and I am excited concerning the potential of the present squad of gamers and the sport they will ship towards the most effective groups on the earth.

“As coaches, we’ve been very inspired by the progress the workforce has made this season, and we imagine there may be rather more to return from this group.

“I additionally really feel the connection the workforce has with the nation is particular and that our supporters are backing the workforce like by no means earlier than. The quantity of people that arrive two hours early to welcome the workforce off the bus on a house matchday demonstrates the love proven for this group of gamers and their perception that the squad can obtain one thing particular.

“Our focus proper now stays on Rugby World Cup preparations, however I’m delighted to have secured my future for the following few years and look ahead to persevering with to do all I can to drive the workforce ahead and encourage our supporters.”