Tony Brown to join All Blacks

Former All Blacks fly-half Tony Brown will leave his role with South Africa after the 2027 Rugby World Cup to join New Zealand as an assistant coach.

New Zealand Rugby confirmed that Brown has signed a two-year deal and will become part of the All Blacks coaching set-up from 2028.

Tony Brown To Join All Blacks Coaching Staff

Brown is currently serving as an assistant coach with the Springboks, a role he has held since 2024. He will remain with South Africa through the 2027 Rugby World Cup before returning to New Zealand rugby.

New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Steve Lancaster described Brown as a world-class coach and said the move was aimed at ensuring top coaching talent returns to the All Blacks environment.

“Tony is a world-class coach who is highly regarded and consistently sought after by head coaches and teams around the world,” Lancaster said.

“We know Tony is available after the 2027 Rugby World Cup, and he’s made it clear he would love to be part of the All Blacks. This decision is simple, it’s about ensuring the best coaches return to New Zealand.

“It’s for the All Blacks head coach to shape the structure and portfolios of their coaching team and we have every confidence that Tony is a high-quality addition when he joins in 2028.”

Former All Black Leaves Springboks Role

Brown has built a strong reputation as an attack-focused coach and has worked across domestic and international rugby. He has coached in Japan and New Zealand and was part of Japan’s coaching staff at the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups.

His work with South Africa has further strengthened his reputation, with the Springboks using him as part of their coaching structure under Rassie Erasmus.

New Zealand Rugby Plans Beyond 2027

The appointment has been made before the All Blacks have confirmed their head coach beyond the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Dave Rennie currently holds the role through the tournament after replacing Scott Robertson earlier this year.