Wales assistant coach leaves Warren Gatland’s backroom staff

The Welsh Rugby Union have announced that they have not renewed Wales contact area coach Jonathan Thomas’ contract.

Thomas joined Wales’ coaching staff in January 2023 ahead of their Rugby World Cup campaign in France.

Wales notched victories over Fiji, Australia, Portugal and Georgia in Pool C at the global showpiece. They later lost to Argentina in the quarter-finals.

Pursuing other opportunities

“I have decided to move on to pursue other opportunities in rugby and am looking forward to the new challenges ahead,” said Thomas.

“Since the World Cup I’ve been helping coach at The Kings School, Gloucester and it’s made me think differently about what the future may look like. I’m looking forward to developing that relationship amongst other ventures.

“I will always be grateful for my time on the coaching team with Wales, but the time is right for me to make a change.

“The hard work and dedication of the players over the last year has been impressive to watch and I wish everyone well for the future.”

Whether Wales replace Thomas ahead of the 2024 Six Nations remains in the balance. Wales’ Six Nations campaign will start against Scotland on 3 February.

‘Valuable contribution’

“Jonathan has been an important member of the team, he is an excellent coach with a great future in the game and has made a valuable contribution to the side’s development especially during the World Cup in France,” added Wales head coach Warren Gatland.

“We wish him well with his future plans and I know he will be an asset to any side in whatever capacity he chooses to pursue next.”

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