Ian Foster ‘won’t coach in New Zealand again’ after the actions of NZR

Former All Blacks boss Ian Foster has stated that his next coaching role will be with an overseas team after providing an update on his future.

That is, according to the 58-year-old, because of his strained relationship with New Zealand Rugby (NZR).

Foster has been outspoken over the governing body’s handling of his position, slamming them for announcing his successor prior to the Rugby World Cup.

His replacement

NZR revealed in March that Scott Robertson would be taking over following the global tournament, but the timing did not impress the former Chiefs coach.

Although Foster did not completely rule out taking a position in New Zealand later down the line, he admits that it would be difficult while the current regime remains in place.

“I can’t see me coaching in New Zealand again, certainly not in the short-term,” he told The Platform.

“I’ve had a great stint with the All Blacks but it’s perhaps no surprise to people that we haven’t seen eye-to-eye with some of the administrators.

“I’m pretty much at peace that that’s kind of it in New Zealand at the moment. I will look overseas and talk to people overseas.

“Am I happy to coach a country? Yes, I love the international game. Would I feel comfortable coaching against the All Blacks? No, I wouldn’t, because I put so much into it.”

Foster endured a turbulent four years in charge of the All Blacks and was almost sacked in August 2022 following a dreadful run of form.

They lost six in eight, which included a series defeat to Ireland and a first-ever home reversal against Argentina.

He retained the support of the players, however, and that played a key role in the 58-year-old keeping his position as head coach.

Coaching switches

The governing body instead decided to switch up the backroom team, with Joe Schmidt and Jason Ryan joining, and that proved crucial.

New Zealand gradually improved and reached the final of the Rugby World Cup last month following knockout wins over Ireland and Argentina.

They missed out on the Webb Ellis Cup after going down to South Africa 12-11, but their run to the showpiece event acted as a redemption of sorts for Foster.

“A different pathway was chosen. For me, I’ve always said it was never about whether I wanted to be coaching the All Blacks in 2024, it was never about that,” he added.

“It was always about coaching the team in 2023 and I stand by that. But other people saw that differently.

“I don’t feel bitter about it, I feel disappointed. I worked hard for this All Black group to put the team at the front as the number one priority, and I’m at peace with that.”

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