Michael Cheika returns to Waratahs for 2027

Michael Cheika will return to the New South Wales Waratahs as head coach for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season, more than a decade after guiding the Sydney side to their only Super Rugby title.

The 59-year-old has signed a one-year deal with an option for 2028.

Michael Cheika returns to NSW Waratahs

Cheika previously transformed the Waratahs into Super Rugby champions in 2014 before moving into international coaching with Australia.

He subsequently guided the Wallabies to the 2015 Rugby World Cup final and later coached Argentina. Cheika also became the first coach to win both the European Cup and Super Rugby titles, having led Leinster to European success in 2009.

The Sydney-born coach said the Waratahs remain a special club for him and recalled the experience of lifting the Super Rugby trophy in 2014.

"The NSW Waratahs have always occupied a special place for me," said Cheika.

"Being involved in the NSW squad that lifted the Super Rugby trophy in 2014 is something I ?will never forget, especially the passion and energy of our supporters.

"This is a new time, a different time, and I am looking forward to being able to enjoy those same kinds of feelings."

Waratahs Turn to Proven Title-Winning Coach

Cheika replaces Dan McKellar, who stepped down in June after the Waratahs finished eighth in the 11-team Super Rugby Pacific competition.

Waratahs High Performance Director Barrie-Jon Mather described Cheika as a proven leader with experience preparing teams for rugby’s biggest stages.

"Michael is a proven leader with an exceptional record across many years building ?and preparing teams to compete on rugby's biggest stages," said Mather.

"His coaching achievements speak for themselves but equally important is his sincere passion for our club and what it represents."

Cheika is currently working as an assistant coach with rugby league side Sydney Roosters before returning to rugby union with the Waratahs.