Coveted defence coach Shaun Edwards has signed a contract with Argentina until after the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, ending any possibility of him linking up with Steve Borthwick's England. Edwards is currently working with England's Red Roses under John Mitchell until after the conclusion of the WXV Global Series on October 30. As such, the 59-year-old will work with the Pumas through their Nations Championship Tests in Europe this November and throughout 2027 until the conclusion of the World Cup.
Edwards was sacked as France's defence coach earlier this year, having worked as part of their Six Nations title successes in 2022 (Grand Slam), 2025 and 2026. Edwards also worked alongside Warren Gatland in the Wales setup between 2008 and 2019, winning Six Nations titles in 2008, 2012, 2013 and 2019. The former Wigan Warriors rugby league great also worked as British and Irish Lions defence coach on the 2009 tour of South Africa.
Joining Argentina will only be the fifth role of Edwards' standout 25-year coaching career, with the Pumas joining the Red Roses, Wasps, Wales and France on his CV. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player The former Great Britain captain was unexpectedly axed in the wake of France's Six Nations title triumph in March, having been in charge of their defence since 2020. Head coach Fabien Galthie revealed in June he wanted to shake-up a back-room team that had been place in long-term.
Signing a contract with Argentina ends any chance of Edwards joining the England men's coaching team under Borthwick. News of Edwards joining Argentina was confirmed alongside news Mario Ledesma will return as Pumas forwards coach, having worked as head coach between 2018 and 2022. Argentina head coach Felipe Contepomi said: "Mario and Shaun arrive at Los Pumas with enormous international experience.
They know what it means to compete at the highest level and can contribute a lot to the team. "With the World Cup just a year away, they will help us continue to grow as a team and prepare in the best possible way for what's to come." Edwards said: "I'm thrilled to be joining Felipe Contepomi, his coaching staff, and the Argentinian team at the end of this month and through to next year's World Cup in Australia. "I've always admired the skill and quality of Argentinian players, and I look forward to contributing my international experience to the team over the next year." Ledesma commented: " I am honored and very grateful for the opportunity to work with Los Pumas again.
I am eager for us to get together and start working with the players and the staff."
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