Springbok attack coach Tony Brown will return to New Zealand after the 2027 Rugby World Cup to take up a role as All Blacks assistant coach. The announcement follows months of speculation about his future.
The Springboks confirmed that Brown will honour his current contract through the end of 2027 before moving to New Zealand Rugby. Brown stated that his contract with New Zealand Rugby begins in 2028 and that his focus remains on the Springboks for the next two years. Bok coach Rassie Erasmus welcomed the clarity, noting that Brown had been open about his desire to be closer to his family and his passion for coaching the All Blacks. Erasmus said the team had made the mistake of negotiating contracts in a Rugby World Cup year in the past. New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Lancaster said the appointment ensures high-quality coaches return to the country. He added that Dave Rennie, the current All Blacks head coach until the end of 2027, was involved in the process.