Internationally renowned rugby mentor Michael Cheika will make a highly anticipated return to the NSW Waratahs, taking over as Head Coach for the 2027 Super Rugby season.

Cheika, who guided the Waratahs to their maiden Super Rugby title in 2014, has signed on to lead the New South Wales-based franchise ahead of a crucial period for Australian rugby, with the Rugby World Cup set to be hosted on home soil in 2027.

The 59-year-old brings with him an extensive coaching résumé that spans some of the biggest teams and competitions in world rugby. Following his successful stint with the Waratahs, Cheika served as Wallabies Head Coach for five years, leading Australia to its first-ever Rugby Championship title and a runner-up finish at the 2015 Rugby World Cup. His achievements earned him the World Rugby Coach of the Year award.

Cheika later took charge of Argentina, guiding Los Pumas to historic success, including their first-ever victory over the All Blacks in New Zealand and a fourth-place finish at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

His coaching journey has also included roles with Leinster Rugby, Stade Français, Leicester Tigers, Green Rockets Tokatsu and, most recently, the Sydney Roosters in the NRL.

A proud New South Welshman, Cheika’s coaching career began to flourish at Randwick, where he won a Shute Shield premiership as Head Coach in 2004 after a distinguished playing career that included more than 300 matches and seven premiership titles.

Cheika will formally commence his role with the Waratahs in November ahead of the 2027 season, with an option to extend into 2028. His assistant coach is expected to be announced at a later date.

Speaking on his return, Cheika said the Waratahs remain close to his heart.

“The NSW Waratahs have always occupied a special place for me. It’s my home state and I feel ready to return as their Head Coach ahead of an important year for the Waratahs and also for Australian Rugby in the lead up to the home Rugby World Cup,” he said.

“Being involved in the NSW squad that lifted the Super Rugby trophy in 2014 is something I will never forget. This is a new time, a different time and I am looking forward to being able to enjoy those same kinds of feelings and more with players, their families and all the fans in this new adventure.”

Waratahs Director of Performance B-J Mather welcomed the appointment, describing Cheika as the ideal leader to guide the club into its next chapter.

“Michael is a proven leader with an exceptional record across many years building and preparing teams to compete on rugby’s biggest stages,” Mather said.

“His coaching achievements speak for themselves but equally important is his sincere passion for our club and what it represents. We believe Michael is the right person to now lead the next chapter for the Waratahs and we are delighted to welcome him home.“

With a decorated coaching career and a strong connection to New South Wales rugby, Cheika’s return is expected to provide the Waratahs with renewed ambition as they build toward the 2027 season and Australia’s home Rugby World Cup.