Former Ireland and Australia head coach Joe Schmidt takes on a new role with Ulster Rugby, working as a consultancy adviser focused on the province's coaching pathway. This newly created position will not involve direct engagement with the senior team but aims to enhance the development of coaches throughout the organization.

As stated in Ulster's announcement, Schmidt will "support the ongoing development of coaches across the province, helping to strengthen a clear and connected coaching pathway." This initiative reflects Ulster's commitment to fostering talent within its coaching ranks.

At 60 years old, Schmidt recently concluded his tenure with the Wallabies, following a victory over Italy in the Nations Championship, which marked the end of a challenging six-match losing streak.

Schmidt's credentials are impressive; he is one of Ireland's most successful coaches, having led the national team from 2013 to 2019. During his tenure, he secured:

• Back-to-back Six Nations titles in his first two years
• A Grand Slam in 2018
• Ireland's first-ever victory against New Zealand
• A historic win over the Springboks in South Africa in 2016

Before his time with the national team, Schmidt served as head coach at Leinster, where he won two Heineken Cups, and worked as an assistant at Clermont. Speculation surrounds his potential return to Leinster, especially as head coach Leo Cullen plans to step down after the 2026-27 season.