The Chiefs have immediately introduced Jono Gibbes because the membership’s new head coach for 2026, taking on from the departing Clayton McMillan, who’s now the top coach at Munster.
Gibbes has served as an assistant on the Chiefs since 2024, and has beforehand held a number of teaching roles outdoors of New Zealand.
Gibbes has coached the New Zealand U20’s, Leinster (Forwards coach), Clermont Auvergne (Forwards coach), La Rochelle (Director of Rugby), and Ulster in his teaching profession, in addition to successful a Bunnings NPC title with Waikato earlier than linking up with the Chiefs.
The 48-year-old former All Black additionally captained the Maori All Blacks to a historic victory in 2005 in opposition to the British and Irish Lions in New Zealand, whereas additionally racking up over 130 appearances for Waikato and the Chiefs mixed.
Gibbes says that the Chiefs atmosphere has grown over time, and that he’s trying ahead to serving to this staff develop.
“Being a part of the organisation for the previous two years has given me an actual appreciation for what’s been constructed right here and the way this staff has grown right into a constant, aggressive unit,” Gibbes says on a Chiefs assertion.
“My job now’s to assist preserve that consistency and preserve pushing to unlock the total potential of this staff. Now we have a powerful basis and a whole lot of expertise, so I’m enthusiastic about what we are able to obtain.”
Departing Chiefs head coach Clayton McMillan is worked up about what the long run holds for the membership, and has excessive reward for Gibbes.
“Jono brings a wealth of expertise, management, and a powerful connection to the area. The teaching, administration and enjoying group has a whole lot of continuity and cohesion, which is a powerful basis to construct from,” McMillan informed the Chiefs.
“I’ve little question this group will lead the Chiefs to nice issues and proceed to excite and encourage our loyal supporters, stakeholders and whanau. Ka whawhai tonu matou – Ake Ake Ake.
Chris Lendrum, who’s New Zealand Rugby’s Common Supervisor of Skilled Rugby and Efficiency, explains that the organisation is worked up concerning the alternative for Gibbes.
“Jono is a extremely skilled coach who has a deep information {of professional} rugby environments and has led main rugby programmes in Eire, France and New Zealand,” Lendrum stated.
“He has a deep connection and understanding of the sport in Aotearoa and his document and status are compelling.
“We’re thrilled he has the chance to guide the Membership that he gave a lot to as a participant and proceed his important contribution to our recreation because the Gallagher Chiefs Head Coach.”
