Warren Gatland explained that he stepped down as Wales head coach after feeling overwhelmed by criticism, including from former players. His departure followed a 22-15 defeat to Italy in the Six Nations, extending Wales’ losing streak to 14 matches and dropping them to a record-low 12th place in the world rankings.
Gatland, 61, admitted that he had already considered resigning before the match in Rome, realizing that a loss would likely mark the end of his second tenure. In an interview with the ‘Daily Telegraph’, he revealed that by the Friday or Saturday before the game, he had internally accepted that a defeat would make stepping down the best decision for everyone.
Despite being contracted until the 2027 World Cup, Gatland left by mutual agreement just days after the Italy loss. Welsh Rugby Union chief executive Abi Tierney stated that both parties felt an immediate change was necessary, leading to Cardiff head coach Matt Sherratt stepping in as interim coach for the remainder of the tournament. Wales’ remaining Six Nations fixtures include matches against Ireland, Scotland, and England.
Gatland previously led Wales to significant success during his 12-year tenure from 2007 to 2019, securing three Grand Slams, reaching two World Cup semi-finals, and briefly topping the world rankings. After leaving following the 2019 World Cup, he returned in December 2022 to replace Wayne Pivac.
Although Gatland has no regrets about returning, he admitted that the team’s poor performances had started to affect his confidence. He pointed to the growing negativity surrounding his role as a key reason for his mid-tournament exit. He also expressed disappointment in criticism from former players-turned-pundits, noting that while objectivity is important, many of them owe their media careers to their playing success.
Gatland acknowledged that current players were also struggling with external criticism but believes his departure will give the squad and coaching staff the breathing room needed to rebuild. He also questioned why former assistant Rob Howley had not been kept on under interim head coach Sherratt.
Looking ahead, Gatland warned that his successor would need resilience to handle the pressures of the job. “There are many people who want you to succeed, but just as many who want you to fail,” he remarked, reflecting on the challenges he faced.
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