Vern Cotter to Lead Queensland Reds from 2027

The Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) has announced the appointment of world-renowned coach, Vern Cotter, as the new Queensland Reds Men’s head coach for the 2027 and 2028 seasons.

The announcement, made on Cotter’s 64th birthday (26 January 2026), confirms a two-year deal that sees the New Zealander succeed Les Kiss, who will transition to the Wallabies head coaching role in July following the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific campaign.

The recruitment of Cotter follows a critical global search for a “proven winner” to build upon the foundations established by Kiss.

Cotter brings an elite foundation, having secured professional titles in both hemispheres, most recently leading the Blues to the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific championship and previously guiding Clermont-Auvergne to a French Top 14 title in 2010.

“In professional sport, you don’t want to be walking into a vague organisation.”

“The Queensland Rugby Union has already shown it has some really smart people in the business, they are organised and they have a vision. The Queensland mindset is strong… ‘We train to win’ is always my position,” Cotter said of his decision. 

QRU CEO, David Hanham, highlighted that Cotter’s character aligns with the club’s “growth mindset.”

“His record of sustained success speaks for itself, but just as compelling is the positive impact he has on people and teams.”

“We are confident he will make a significant and lasting contribution to our future,” Hanham said.

A Strategic Multi-Level Transition

Cotter’s commitment to the Reds effectively rules him out of the vacant All Blacks head coaching role following the sudden departure of Scott Robertson.

Outgoing Reds coach Les Kiss will finish the 2026 season in Brisbane before taking over the national side. His first Test at the helm is scheduled against Japan on 8 August 2026.

QRU general managerm, Sam Cordingley, and CEO David Hanham prioritised Cotter for his ability to sustain success, citing his 53% win rate with Scotland (the highest in their professional era) and his 77-game unbeaten home streak with Clermont.

While the deal is secured for 2027, the focus for 2026 remains on Kiss and the Reds squad, recently bolstered by the appointment of Fraser McReight as captain.

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