“Very proud”: Scott Hansen confirmed as Crusaders head coach

The Crusaders have confirmed Scott Hansen as their new coach from next Super Rugby season.

He takes over Rob Penney who will step-down at the conclusion of the 2026 season.

Penney took on the role following the departure of Scott Robertson and missed the playoffs in 2024 before guiding the team to the title in 2025.

Hansen has a long history with the Crusaders having played halfback for them in their inaugural season in 1996 before becoming an assistant under Robertson in the championship winning seasons from 2020-2023.

He then followed Robertson into the All Blacks with their time coming to an end prematurely after two seasons.

Hansen is delighted to return to the franchise.

“My family and I are incredibly thankful for this opportunity, and we’re excited to be part of something special,” Hansen says.

“I was born in Christchurch, raised in Lyttelton, and I’m Crusader number 25. This is my home and I’m very proud to be given the opportunity to serve the Crusaders and the people of this region again.”

Hansen has built an extensive coach resume, including roles with the Japanese national team, the Sunwolves, Leicester Tigers, Kobelco Steelers, New Zealand Under 20s, and the All Blacks XV.

Current coach Penney is stepping aside by his own decision, and is motivated to leave on a high.

“I have been so very fortunate to be a small part of the Crusaders over the last three years and am very excited as we once again head into a finals campaign with a team very capable of going the whole way.”

The chances of the Crusaders going back-to-back has been dealt a massive blow though.

Fullback Will Jordan will miss the rest of the season with a calf injury that will require 4-6 weeks recovery, putting him in doubt for the All Blacks’ opening test against France in Christchurch on July 4th.