The Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) wishes to congratulate Les Kiss on his appointment as Head Coach of the Wallabies, which will come into effect following the conclusion of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Since his appointment as Head Coach of the Queensland Reds in July 2023, Les has contributed to improved team performance on the field and played a critical role in the recruitment and retention of a playing group and staff who are united in their motivation to achieve success.
QRU Chief Executive David Hanham said that Kiss’ appointment as Wallabies coach recognised his excellent performance at the Reds, and believed it was a positive announcement for Australian Rugby ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
“On behalf of the QRU, we wish to extend our congratulations to Les on his appointment as the Head Coach of the Wallabies,” Hanham said.
“We are supportive of Les’ ambition and proud that his hard work and the strong performance and culture of the team and organisation has been recognised in his appointment.
“Since Les returned to Queensland following more than 20 years overseas and interstate, it has been clear to us that he is an outstanding coach and a great person. Les has undoubtedly made our players better, and the implementation of his entertaining game plan has positively influenced attendance at Reds matches and our broader commerciality as a business.
Queensland Reds Head Coach Les Kiss said he felt privileged to be appointed to the Wallabies role.
“It’s an honour to be named Wallabies Head Coach from July 2026. I’ve enjoyed the process and look forward to what’s ahead," Kiss said.
“As it always has been, my focus will continue to be the Reds and what an excellent high-performance staff can deliver for a wonderful Reds program and playing group.
“The commitment by everyone here at the Reds is reflected by where we are on the Super Rugby Pacific ladder. The locker room is strong and we have great leaders as we continue to push for higher.”
Hanham said the Queensland Reds coaching role is one of the most appealing anywhere in the world.
“The process for identifying the Queensland Reds Head Coach for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season can be managed with patience,” Hanham said.
“We believe that this role is one of the most attractive jobs at a provincial level anywhere in the world. We have a world-class high-performance facility, staff and playing group shaped for success and a passionate fan base and commercial stability which underpins our ability to control our own destiny. With the Olympic Games being held in Brisbane in 2032, this is clearly one of the most attractive places to live and work in global Rugby.”
