Ioan Cunningham leaves job as Wales women's rugby union head coach
He'd been in charge of the team for three years
Last updated 8th Nov 2024
Wales women's rugby union head coach Ioan Cunningham has left his job after three years in charge.
There'd been reported issues with contracts before the decision was announced today.
The WRU has thanked Ioan for his hard work and says the process to appoint a replacement is underway.
WRU CEO Abi Tierney said:
“We would like to formally thank Ioan Cunningham for his contribution to the senior international women’s game in Wales over the last three seasons.
“Ioan has been in charge for the transition of the team from amateur to professional status and led the side to a first ever win over Australia this year after seeing them finish third in Six Nations 2023 and reach WXV1 in the Autumn of that year.
“We are in the early stages of professionalism in the senior women’s game, there are challenges which we are addressing with determination and vigour, but our dedication to this integral part of our game is unwavering.
“The women’s and girls’ game remains a priority for Welsh rugby and is a key part of our new strategy for the game in Wales.”
Ioan Cunningham said:
“We have made some significant progress and there are many achievements to be proud of in terms of squad development. In particular, reaching the quarter-finals of the 2021 Rugby World Cup (played in 2022), and third place finishes in both the 2022 and the 2023 Six Nations, where a top three placing enabled us to qualify for the top tier WXV1 tournament.
“But the time is now right for someone new to take the helm and I wish the new regime and everyone involved in this elite programme all the very best for the future.”