Tom Hooper says Wallabies still back Joe Schmidt despite poor run

Australia lock Tom Hooper says the Wallabies remain fully committed to head coach Joe Schmidt despite their difficult European tour, which now risks ending without a single win.

The team faces France on Saturday after consecutive defeats to England, Italy and Ireland this month.

Schmidt, who is due to step down in July before Les Kiss takes charge ahead of the 2027 home Rugby World Cup, continues to enjoy strong support from the squad.

Hooper insisted the recent losses were down to player execution rather than coaching.

“We completely believe in what Joe’s building here,” he said, adding that several match-defining moments went astray due to errors on the field.

Centre Joseph-Aukuso Sua’ali’i echoed the sentiment, calling Schmidt “one of the best coaches I’ve ever had” and stressing that the responsibility for recent results rests with the playing group, not the management.

Contrast to Earlier Successes

Australia’s current form contrasts sharply with their performances earlier this year, when Schmidt led them to a historic third-Test win over the British and Irish Lions and a dramatic comeback victory over South Africa in Johannesburg.