It’s officially over. Scott ‘Razor’ Robertson has been cut from the All Blacks top job just two years into his four-year contract.
The decision comes off the back of a 2025 season review, which reportedly delivered a blunt assessment of Robertson’s leadership.
In a press release, New Zealand Rugby confirmed the news:
“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.”
It felt inevitable that Ian Foster was going to lose his job in mid-2022, only for NZR to stick by him through to the World Cup. Before that, John Hart and Wayne Smith both resigned, and John Mitchell simply didn't have his contract renewed.
Watch: Martin Devlin and Lachlan Waugh break down Scott Robertson stepping down as All Blacks head coach:
To be fair, the warning signs for the Robertson era have been there for a while.
In his first year, assistant coach Leon MacDonald resigned after just three tests, citing "philosophical differences." More change followed last year when assistant Jason Holland confirmed he’d be heading back to the Hurricanes.
While NZR always reviews the season, this one went deep.
Reports suggest players had directed frustration toward Robertson and assistant Scott Hansen, claiming they were "at the centre" of unrest within the group.
On paper, the stats weren't terrible. Under Razor, the team recorded 20 wins from 27 tests (a 74 percent success rate). But the shock losses - including that first-ever defeat in Argentina - left a feeling that the team just wasn't moving forward.
NZR Chairman David Kirk acknowledged the decision in a statement.
“On behalf of New Zealand Rugby I would like to thank Scott for his contribution to the All Blacks. 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.”
To add to the drama, reports surfaced this week that Ardie Savea is considering his future if changes are not made.
The former Player of the Year is believed to be looking at extending his time in Japan or even moving to Irish club Leinster, despite being contracted to NZR until 2027.
So, what comes next?
NZR says the recruitment process for a new Head Coach will start immediately. Current Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph is already being tipped as the frontrunner after leading the All Blacks XV last year.
It's going to be a massive year, with the Nations Championship kicking off in July followed by a huge tour to South Africa.
For the latest news and updates on Scott Robertson and the future of the All Blacks, make sure you follow and stream the DSPN Podcast.

Published by Georgia Watt
15 Jan 2026