Italian rugby chiefs make shock decision to change head coach after RWC : PlanetRugby

The Italian Rugby Federation (FIR) will not renew the contract of head coach Kieran Crowley following the Rugby World Cup in France.

Having done an outstanding job while in charge of Benetton, the 61-year-old was appointed as Italy’s head coach in 2021, replacing Franco Smith, who became the country’s head of high performance.

Crowley oversaw an improvement while in the position as they ended their 36-match barren Six Nations streak with a 22-21 victory over Wales in Cardiff.

From boys to men

“Now that we have decided to end the relationship with Crowley after the next World Cup, it is time to take stock. And Kieran’s with Italian rugby is very positive,” FIR president Marzio Innocenti said.

“He raised a group of boys, making them men and players of high international calibre, and for this we will be eternally grateful.

“But our work together is not finished yet, we have one exciting adventure left to live in France this September, and I am sure that Kieran and his team will leave their indelible mark on the history of Italian rugby.”

Italy have looked a much-improved side under Crowley and, in 2022, secured a landmark triumph over Australia – their first victory ever against the Wallabies.

Although the Azzurri failed to win a game in the recent Six Nations, they were competitive in most games and caused significant problems for both France and Ireland.

“I would have liked to have been involved with the Italian national team for the next Rugby World Cup cycle, and I am sorry for the FIR’s choice not to extend my contract,” Crowley said.

“We have a young team, which has gained good experience over the last year, with performances showing improvements in many areas.

“We have changed the way we train in the gym and on the pitch and in the way we approach and play matches. We have changed the mentality, instilling courage and self-confidence, without constraints.

“With a World Cup and another four years of international matches, we will have a group averaging 50-60 caps – an exciting prospect.

Focus on the 2023 World Cup

“Unfortunately, I won’t be part of this journey, and now I have to think about what awaits us immediately, namely the Rugby World Cup in France, before my departure.

“I will be 100% committed together with our staff to prepare this group of players in the best possible way. My wife Sue and I will always remember the wonderful people we met and the moments spent with them, the teams I trained, the colleagues I worked with, the Italian culture and ofcourse the food and wine.

“We will miss all of this, but Italy will always have a special place in our hearts.”

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