Kiss Announces New Successor Amidst Kiwi Poaching Investigation

Morgan Winslow

Published: January 26, 2026 4:37 PM ET

Kiss Announces New Successor Amidst Kiwi Poaching Investigation

The Queensland Reds have confirmed the appointment of Vern Cotter as head coach, succeeding Les Kiss in 2027. Currently the coach of the Auckland Blues, Cotter has signed a two-year contract. His arrival coincides with Kiss taking over the Wallabies at the close of the ongoing Super Rugby Pacific season.

Vern Cotter’s Coaching Background

Vern Cotter is a seasoned coach with a successful track record. He recently led the Auckland Blues to the 2024 premiership. Previously, he guided Clermont Auvergne to victory in France’s Top 14. Additionally, he has international experience with Scotland at the 2015 Rugby World Cup and Fiji from 2020 to 2023.

Quotes from Vern Cotter

Cotter expressed his anticipation for joining the Queensland Rugby Union. He said, “In professional sport, you don’t want to be walking into a vague organisation. The Queensland Rugby Union has already shown it has some really smart people in the business.”

He values the organizational clarity and vision of the QRU: “Every time I’ve taken a role in sport, it’s been about the people. I’ve had a connection with Sam Cordingley since my days at Clermont in France.”

Cotter is intrigued by the culture of Australian rugby, noting, “Australian rugby and Australian sport fascinate me. To work in that culture excites me.”

Looking to the Future

Cotter highlighted the potential for the Reds to grow further. He remarked, “The history of players who have been produced for the Reds and Wallabies, and the junior nurseries behind them, tells me there is scope for the Reds to keep growing.”

He also emphasized his commitment to improvement, stating, “I pride myself on always looking to improve myself as a coach. ‘We train to win’ is always my position.”

Transition Period for the Reds

The announcement comes as the Reds prepare for Kiss’s transition to the Wallabies. Initially, Joe Schmidt was set to conclude his term with the Wallabies before last year’s Spring Tour. His extension means he will remain until mid-2026, providing the Reds more time for thorough planning.