Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend signs contract extension until April 2026

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has recommitted his future after signing a new contract until April 2026.

Townsend, who played 82 times for the Dark Blues during his playing career, took over as the head coach in 2017 and is already the longest-serving Scotland coach in the professional era.

The 50-year-old's contract was due to expire after the Rugby World Cup but now has earned an extension following Scotland's successful Six Nations campaign that saw them finished third - their highest since 2018 as they climbed to the fifth position in the World Rugby Rankings.

"I'm excited about the potential of the current squad of players and the game they can deliver against the best teams in the world," said Townsend.

"As coaches, we have been very encouraged by the progress the team has made this season, and we believe there is much more to come from this group.

"I also feel the connection the team has with the country is special and that our supporters are backing the team like never before.

"The number of people who arrive two hours early to welcome the team off the bus on a home matchday demonstrates the love shown for this group of players and their belief that the squad can achieve something special.

"Our focus right now remains on Rugby World Cup preparations, but I am delighted to have secured my future for the next few years and look forward to continuing to do all I can to drive the team forward and inspire our supporters."