COTTER TO DEPART AT END OF SEASON
Blues head coach Vern Cotter will conclude his tenure as part of a managed transition with the club at the end of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Cotter has accepted an opportunity with the Queensland Reds from 2027.
Blues CEO Karl Budge said the decision to announce Cotter’s future ahead of the season would provide clarity for all parties and support the club’s future focus.
“This has been part of a long-term strategy, and both Vern and the club felt it was the right thing to be open and clear before the season begins,” he said.
“We hugely appreciate everything Vern has done and continues to do for the club. He has delivered exactly what he was brought in to do. The Blues have a strong performance environment, clear DNA of how we want to play and know what it takes to be champions.”
Cotter, who joined the Blues in 2024 on a three-year agreement, has played a pivotal role in the club’s recent resurgence, leading the team to the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific title.
Under his leadership, the Blues firmly established themselves as consistent finals contenders, with a strong emphasis on standards, connection and long-term development.
Cotter remains fully committed to the Blues and finishing his time at the club strongly.
“Vern is 100 percent focused on the job at hand,” Budge said.
“He is deeply invested in this playing group and this organisation, and that does not change. We know he will continue to lead with the same professionalism and drive that has defined his time here.”
Cotter said the decision to take up the role with the Reds was made with respect and gratitude for the Blues and NZ Rugby.
“When I arrived, I was brought in to help create a winning culture, and over the past few years we’ve had a lot of mature, honest conversations about where the club was and where it needed to go,” Cotter said.
“The landscape has changed significantly since I came in, and it genuinely feels like the club is well set up for its next phase of evolution. There has been a lot of good during my time here, and I’m proud of what we’ve built together.
“Timing is always important in this game, and it feels like the right moment for both me and the club to plan for what comes next.
“This club has a proud history and a special connection with its people. Right now, my focus is firmly on the 2026 season and doing everything I can to help this team perform at its best and leave the club in a strong position.”
Cotter was clear his commitment to the Blues in 2026 remains absolute.
“People should expect my full commitment to the Blues this season,” he said.
“I’m 100 percent locked in for this season. My focus is on this group, this campaign, and making sure we finish strong. Other clubs should be watching closely.”
A robust head coach appointment process is already underway with more details to follow in the coming weeks.
For now, the club’s full attention remains on the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific season with the opening game against the Chiefs at Eden Park on Saturday 14 February.