Franco Smith committed to Glasgow Warriors amid Wales links

Glasgow Warriors head coach Franco Smith remains fully committed to the club, despite ongoing speculation linking him with the vacant Wales coaching job.

The South African tactician, who has been instrumental in Glasgow’s recent success, is reportedly among the frontrunners to replace Warren Gatland, who was dismissed after Wales’ winless run.

While Smith is contracted at Scotstoun until 2026, his name has been frequently mentioned in discussions regarding Wales’ next head coach. The Warriors boss has admitted feeling “flattered” by the links but has not indicated any plans to leave his current role.

Glasgow Warriors assistant coach Nigel Carolan has dismissed any speculation that Smith is considering a move, reinforcing that his focus remains on building for the future at the club.

“It’s good for Franco. He's done wonderful work since he's been here. If his name gets bandied around in the media then good, and that's down to the work that he's done and the position at Glasgow Warriors.”

Carolan emphasized that Smith’s influence has been beneficial for Scottish rugby as a whole, and he sees no indication that his head coach is looking elsewhere.

“He's very coy and he's committed to Glasgow Warriors. At the moment, as far as we're concerned, he's not going anywhere. He's making massive plans here for the future. He has told me his plans are to stay here. At the moment he's 100% committed to Glasgow Warriors.”