Dave Rennie has officially named his full coaching and performance team for the All Blacks through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The new All Blacks coaching team 2026 brings a powerful mix of experience, mana, and fresh ideas as the team prepares for the demanding Nations Championship season starting in July.
All Blacks Coaching Team 2026: Full List of Appointments
Head Coach Dave Rennie has confirmed the following key appointments:
- Neil Barnes – Senior Assistant Coach (currently Taranaki Head Coach, brings strong leadership and lineout expertise)
- Jason Ryan – Forwards Coach (retained, one of the best scrum and maul coaches in the game)
- Fa’alogo Tana Umaga – Defence Coach (All Black #961, former Moana Pasifika coach, brings huge mana and defensive insight)
- Mike Blair – Attack Coach (former Scotland halfback, currently with Kobelco Kobe Steelers in Japan – will join after the Japanese season, subject to visa)
- Phil Healey – Head of Performance (highly respected strength & conditioning coach who has worked closely with Rennie at Chiefs, Glasgow Warriors, and Kobe Steelers)
Rennie’s Vision for the All Blacks Coaching Team
Rennie said: “This is a very experienced and highly skilled coaching team. Each of these men has a track record of getting the best out of the players and teams they coach, and they are hugely motivated to deliver success with the All Blacks.” He highlighted Neil Barnes for leadership, Jason Ryan for forward excellence, Tana Umaga for defensive mana, and Mike Blair for innovative attack play. Phil Healey’s return to New Zealand was described as a major priority for Rennie.
Māori All Blacks Head Coach Also Confirmed
Tamati Ellison (All Black #1099) has been appointed as Māori All Blacks Head Coach for the Lipovitan-D Challenge Cup in June against Japan XV in Nagoya. As a former New Zealand Māori co-captain, Ellison brings deep knowledge and pride to the role.
What This Means for the 2026 Season
The full coaching group is now in planning mode. Rennie and his team will connect regularly with Super Rugby clubs and players over the coming months. The focus is on building a cohesive environment ahead of the July home Tests against France (Christchurch opener), Italy, and Ireland, followed by the four-Test South Africa tour and the rest of the Nations Championship.
Stay Updated on the All Blacks
Follow all the latest coaching news, player updates, and 2026 preparations in our news section. Full 2026 schedule and fixtures → All Blacks 2026 Fixtures
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