The 10 best rugby union coaches of all time [Ranked]

Monday, 08 June 2026 at 21:37

bySteven Smith

newcomers to join the top flight in 2011… but can you remember the rest?

Rugby has always been defined by great players, but behind every World Cup-winning side and dynasty team stands a coach whose vision, leadership and tactical brilliance made it all possible.

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From innovators who transformed the sport to serial winners who dominated the international game, these coaches have shaped rugby history and left legacies that continue to influence the modern era.

So who are the greatest rugby coaches of all time?

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10. Eddie Jones – Master of the Upset

Few coaches have consistently punched above their weight like Eddie Jones.

The Australian guided the Wallabies to the 2003 Rugby World Cup final, masterminded Japan’s historic victory over South Africa at the 2015 World Cup, and later took England to the 2019 World Cup final after knocking out New Zealand in one of the greatest tactical performances of the professional era.

Known for his attention to detail, innovation and ability to unsettle opponents, Jones remains one of rugby’s most influential coaching minds.

9. Warren Gatland – The Lions Specialist

Warren Gatland built a legacy few coaches can match.

During his time with Wales, he delivered four Six Nations titles, including three Grand Slams, while transforming the national side into a consistent force on the world stage.

His achievements with the British & Irish Lions are equally impressive, leading the tourists to a series victory over Australia in 2013 before securing a drawn series against New Zealand in 2017.

8. Kitch Christie – The Unbeaten World Cup Winner

Kitch Christie’s reign as Springbok coach was brief but unforgettable.

He guided South Africa to a historic Rugby World Cup triumph on home soil in 1995, a victory that transcended sport and helped unite a nation.

Remarkably, Christie never lost a Test match as Springbok coach, finishing his tenure with an unbeaten record and a place among rugby’s immortals.

7. Sir Ian McGeechan – The Lions Icon

No coach is more closely associated with the British & Irish Lions than Sir Ian McGeechan.

"Geech" led four Lions tours and delivered famous series victories in Australia in 1989 and South Africa in 1997.

He also masterminded Scotland’s Grand Slam-winning campaign in 1990, cementing his reputation as one of the sport’s finest motivators and man-managers.

6. Rod Macqueen – The Architect of Wallaby Greatness

Rod Macqueen oversaw one of the most successful periods in Australian rugby history.

Under his leadership, the Wallabies lifted the Rugby World Cup in 1999, won the Tri Nations and defeated the British & Irish Lions in a memorable 2001 series.

Macqueen's emphasis on preparation, innovation and team culture helped create a golden generation of Australian rugby.

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5. Jake White – South Africa’s Great Rebuilder

When Jake White took charge of the Springboks in 2004, South African rugby was searching for direction.

Three years later, he had transformed them into world champions.

White built his side around defensive excellence, physical dominance and elite set-piece play, culminating in South Africa’s 2007 Rugby World Cup triumph in France.

His ability to identify and develop talent also played a major role in the Springboks’ resurgence.

4. Sir Clive Woodward – The Man Who Changed England Rugby

Sir Clive Woodward revolutionised English rugby.

Combining cutting-edge sports science, psychology and meticulous planning, he built the side that famously won the 2003 Rugby World Cup, becoming the first team from the northern hemisphere to lift the trophy.

Woodward’s influence stretched far beyond results, with many of his methods now standard practice across elite sport.

3. Graham Henry – The Great Reformer

Graham Henry inherited the pressure of leading New Zealand after years of World Cup disappointment.

He responded by rebuilding the All Blacks into the world’s dominant force and ultimately delivered World Cup glory on home soil in 2011.

Earlier coaching successes with Wales and the British & Irish Lions only strengthened his reputation as one of rugby’s greatest thinkers and leaders.

2. Steve Hansen – The Silent General

Steve Hansen helped oversee one of the most dominant periods any international team has ever enjoyed.

After serving as Graham Henry’s assistant during the 2011 World Cup victory, Hansen stepped into the top job and guided New Zealand to the 2015 Rugby World Cup title.

His All Blacks side combined tactical flexibility, player empowerment and relentless consistency, maintaining standards that seemed almost impossible to sustain.

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1. Rassie Erasmus – The Modern Mastermind

Few coaches have transformed a national side as dramatically as Rassie Erasmus.

Taking charge of South Africa in 2018, Erasmus engineered a stunning revival, winning the Rugby Championship before leading the Springboks to Rugby World Cup success in both 2019 and 2023.

His blend of traditional Springbok power, tactical innovation and elite man-management has redefined modern coaching. With his influence still being felt across the game, Erasmus has already secured his place among rugby’s all-time greats.