Shaun Edwards joins Argentina's coaching team until the 2027 Rugby World Cup

[Connor75]

Shaun Edwards has joined Argentina's coaching staff on a deal running to the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, Planet Rugby reports. His exact title has not been confirmed. He is currently a consultant with England's Red Roses until the WXV Global Series ends on 30 October. He will then join Argentina ahead of the second leg of the Nations Championship

Edwards has a fantastic record as a defence coach. France let him go earlier in 2026 after six years under Fabien Galthié. That period included Six Nations titles in 2022, 2025 and 2026. Before that, he had a long and successful spell with Wales

Argentina have also brought back Mario Ledesma as forwards coach on the same timeline, the Argentine Rugby Union confirmed. Ledesma won 84 caps as a hooker for the Pumas between 1996 and 2011. He then served as head coach from 2018 to 2022. He said he was honoured and very grateful for the chance to work with Los Pumas again

Head coach Felipe Contepomi welcomed both appointments. He said Mario and Shaun arrive with enormous international experience. Edwards said he has always admired the skill and quality of Argentinian players. It is a strong pair of additions for a team that already plays exciting rugby

This is a big signing for Argentina. Edwards's defensive systems have transformed teams wherever he has gone. Combined with Argentina's natural flair and Ledesma's forward expertise, they could be a serious threat at the next World Cup. It is also a reminder of Edwards's roots, as a rugby league legend who became one of union's great coaches

How much difference will Edwards make to Argentina? And could the Pumas become serious World Cup contenders?

Shaun Edwards' coaching future decided as he joins Argentina's backroom staff alongside Los Pumas legendwww.planetrugby.com

[RVD17]

Edwards's rugby league background is a big part of his success. League defence is relentless, and he brought those ideas into union brilliantly

Wigan fans still remember him as a legend. Lovely to see him continue at the highest level

League has given union so many great ideas. Defensive line speed came straight from league