Hansen signs deal to stay at All Blacks until 2019
World Cup winner Steve Hansen has extended his contract as coach of New Zealand until 2019.
The 57-year-old has been part of the coaching staff with the All Blacks since 2004, taking over as head coach in 2012 after Graham Henry’s retirement.
New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Tew called Hansen’s record with the All Blacks “remarkable and unparalleled in international rugby”.
“Steve’s winning record is unsurpassed in the modern era. Since becoming head coach in 2012, he recorded 52 wins in his 57 Tests to date, with two draws and just three losses,” Tew added. “It is important to also acknowledge Steve’s long-term commitment to New Zealand Rugby. Apart from his stint with Wales in 2002-2004, he has spent his entire time coaching in New Zealand.”
Despite his record, Hansen said his reappointment was far from a foregone conclusion.
“It had to be right for my family, for myself and for the team. In speaking to my family, they’ve all given me their wholehearted support and I’m very thankful for that, because you just couldn’t do this job without that,” Hansen said.
“Having the opportunity to be part of a team that will be trying to win three consecutive Rugby World Cups is both an invigorating and exciting challenge and one that I’m very much looking forward to being part of. However, whilst the continuation of my contract will put a focus on the World Cup, it’s the immediate future that we need to focus on and we’re all looking forward to getting back together for the Investec Rugby Championship and re-establishing the team.”