Shaun Edwards’ coaching future decided as he joins Argentina’s backroom staff alongside Los Pumas legend
Shaun Edwards and Mario Ledesma (inset) have been appointed to Argentina's coaching staff.
Highly rated international coach Shaun Edwards’ coaching future has been decided after it was revealed that he has been appointed to Argentina’s backroom staff.
Widely regarded as one of the best defence coaches in the business, Edwards, who enjoyed a stellar career as a rugby league player with England and Wigan Warriors, was relieved of his duties with France earlier this year.
The 59-year-old had a six-year stint with Les Bleus and during his time as part of head coach Fabien Galthié’s coaching staff they won the Six Nations in 2022, 2025, and 2026.
Prior to that, Edwards had a successful coaching spell with Wasps from 2001 to 2011, was Wales’ defence coach from 2008 to 2019 and had a similar role with the British & Irish Lions during their 2009 tour to South Africa.
Currently part of Red Roses’ backroom staff
He is currently working as a consultant with the Red Roses until the conclusion of the WXV Global Series on October 30 and will then join Argentina’s coaching staff ahead of the second leg of the Nations Championship.
Edwards, who is contracted with Argentina until the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, is looking forward to taking up his new position.
“I’m thrilled to be joining Felipe Contepomi, his coaching staff, and the Argentinian team at the end of this month and through to next year’s World Cup in Australia,” he said.
“I’ve always admired the skill and quality of Argentinian players, and I look forward to contributing my international experience to the team over the next year.”
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Los Pumas legend returns to coaching role
Meanwhile, the Argentine Rugby Union have also confirmed the appointment of legendary Argentina hooker Mario Ledesma as Los Pumas’ forwards coach until the end of next year’s World Cup.
Ledesma represented his country in 84 Tests from 1996 to 2011, and he also served as Argentina’s head coach between 2018 and 2022.
The 53-year-old is delighted to make a return to international coaching.
“I am honoured and very grateful for the opportunity to work with Los Pumas again. I am eager for us to get together and start working with the players and the staff,” said Ledesma.
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Argentina’s current head coach Felipe Contepomi is excited about the new additions to his coaching staff.
“Mario and Shaun arrive at Los Pumas with enormous international experience,” he said.
“They know what it means to compete at the highest level and can contribute a lot to the team. With the World Cup just a year away, they will help us continue to grow as a team and prepare in the best possible way for what’s to come.”
