The former Crusaders coach, in post since the end of 2023, has been forced to leave his role following an “in-depth review” of the 2025 season, New Zealand Rugby (NZR) said in a statement.

The New Zealand federation explained that it had “analysed in depth the team’s progress on and off the field” and, after discussing it with Robertson, judged it “in the team’s interest” that he step down from his role as head coach.

“The timing, in the middle of a World Cup cycle, is right to reassess the All Blacks’ progress”, said NZR chairman David Kirk, stressing that the team is about to face a packed schedule in 2026, including hosting France in July.

For his part, Robertson said he had “taken the time to reflect” on the feedback from the end-of-season review and insisted that his “priority has always been the success of the All Blacks“. “I’m incredibly proud of what this team has achieved and of the progress made“, he said, before adding: “As you can imagine, I’m deeply affected by this outcome. I care enormously about this team”.

Robertson’s record in charge of the national side stands at 20 wins from 27 matches, a ratio judged below expectations for New Zealand rugby, marked by some heavy defeats in 2025, including a historic thrashing by South Africa.

NZR said a recruitment process for a “new head coach would begin immediately”, with the All Blacks aiming to get back to the top of the world game before the 2027 World Cup.