Razor's lost its edge: Scott Robertson departs from All Blacks amid player unrest

This follows a review by the governing body into the 2025 season headed by NZR chairman David Kirk and it was eventually decided it was best to part ways with Robertson, who took over the reins as All Blacks head coach from Ian Foster after the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

"The mid-point in the Rugby World Cup cycle is the right time to look at the All Blacks' progress over the first two seasons," said New Zealand Rugby Chair David Kirk.

"The team are set to play a significant 2026 schedule and the tournament in 2027 remains the key goal. We've taken an extensive look at the team's progress on and off the field and have subsequently had discussions with Scott on the way forward. Both NZR and Scott agree it is in the best interests of the team that he depart his role as Head Coach."

Kirk acknowledged Robertson's contribution to the All Blacks across a long period of time.

"On behalf of New Zealand Rugby, I would like to thank Scott for his contribution to the All Blacks," added Kirk.

"As always, he has continued to put the All Blacks first and we respect that he has done the hard but right thing in agreeing to depart.

"His passion for the team as both a player and coach is evident and his commitment to and involvement in rugby in New Zealand at every level over a long period is significant. We wish him well for the future."

NZR will now commence the All Blacks' Head Coach recruitment process immediately and will provide an update in the coming days.

The news comes off the back of increasing player unrest, as per a report from the New Zealand Herald. The publication claimed All Black superstar Ardie Savea is so unhappy that he was considering swapping his international future for a deal with an overseas club. Robertson was reportedly at the centre of the internal frustrations at the All Blacks.

Meanwhile, the departing Robertson released a statement in which he said it was an honour to coach the All Blacks.

"I am incredibly proud of what this team has achieved and of the progress we have made," it read.

"We have brought through a talented group of young players, strengthened the depth across the squad, and set solid foundations for the years ahead.

"Following the end of year review I have taken time to reflect on some of the feedback. My priority has always been the success of the All Blacks and, after discussions with New Zealand Rugby, I believe it is in the best interests of the team for me to step aside.

"I have therefore reached an agreement with New Zealand Rugby to end my contract early so a new coaching group has the time it needs to prepare and take the team into the next World Cup."

Robertson's All Blacks earned 20 wins from 27 Test matches, translating to a 74% win percentage. However, the losses tell the story, as two of them were record losses inflicted by the indomitable Springboks. 

The All Blacks are scheduled to play next in three July Nations Championship matches in New Zealand before a highly anticipated inaugural Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour of South Africa.

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