Shaun Edwards, the renowned defence coach, has been appointed to Argentina’s coaching staff for a contract spanning the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
The move quashes speculation that Edwards might take a position in Steve Borthwick’s England set‑up. He will first complete his consultancy role with England’s women’s team before joining Felipe Contepomi’s staff.
“I’m delighted to join Felipe Contepomi, his coaching staff and the Argentina rugby team at the end of this month until the World Cup next year in Australia,” said Edwards.
“I’ve always admired the ability and quality of Argentine players and I hope to bring some of my international experience to the team during the next year,” added the former Wigan rugby league great.
Edwards, an Englishman and one of rugby union’s most decorated coaches, departed his role as France’s men’s defence coach earlier this year after guiding them to three Six Nations titles.
He will team up with former Argentina head coach and hooker Mario Ledesma, who has been appointed forwards coach, and they will begin their work with the Pumas at the end of October.
Argentina are scheduled to play Ireland, Italy and France in November’s Nations Championship fixtures.
The three‑time semi‑finalists have been placed in a pool alongside Fiji, Spain and Canada at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, held from 1 to 13 November.
Edwards, who enjoyed a successful 12‑year stint with Wales and lifted four English titles and two Champions Cups as part of the Wasps coaching team, expressed interest in March in coaching in the Rugby Championship – the southern‑hemisphere competition featuring South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and Argentina.
In 2006 he declined an opportunity to coach England, opting to remain with Wasps because of their busy schedule while he was grieving his brother’s death.
Two years later he chose to join Wales as defence coach rather than lead England’s second‑tier side, then called the Saxons.
In 2021 he met with Rugby Football Union chief executive Bill Sweeney, but without a firm offer he signed a new contract to remain with France.
