Glasgow Warriors boss emerges as a top contender for the Wales job
The coaching carousel in international rugby is in full swing, and Glasgow Warriors’ Franco Smith has now been firmly linked with the vacant Wales head coach position following the departure of Warren Gatland.
With Smith currently under contract with Glasgow Warriors until 2026, the speculation has raised questions about whether he could be tempted into taking the international job earlier than expected.
SMITH OPEN TO A NATIONAL TEAM RETURN
Smith, who previously coached Italy, did little to squash the rumors when asked about his future before Glasgow’s URC match against the Dragons last weekend. He admitted that a return to international rugby was on his radar.
“I would like to coach international rugby again. I think most coaches dream of it,” Smith told Premier Sports before the game.
However, when pushed about the specific Wales vacancy, Smith remained more cautious:
“For now, I’m just focused on what’s got to be done today. Obviously, I’m still on a contract with Glasgow Warriors. You never know.”
After the match, he was again asked about the Wales job, to which he responded:
“I know there is a lot of talk, so I’ll leave it at that.”
GLASGOW SUCCESS AND HIS WALES CONNECTION
Smith’s growing reputation stems from his success with Glasgow, leading them to a Challenge Cup Final and a top-four URC finish last season. While he didn’t win the URC title, his work with the Warriors has drawn praise, particularly in developing Scotland’s next generation of talent.
Adding fuel to the speculation is his personal connection to Wales—having spent a season playing for Newport RFC, where his son, Franco Jr., was born. Smith has fond memories of his time in Wales:
“There are good people who live here, and I was very well welcomed. We had a fantastic time, and I have fond memories.”
IS WALES INTERESTED?
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) is yet to publicly confirm any shortlist, but Smith is seen as a leading contender given his international coaching experience and recent success at club level.
With Wales set for a two-Test tour to Japan in July, a decision on Gatland’s successor is expected sooner rather than later. The big question remains: will Smith stay in Scotland, or will he be tempted by a return to the international stage?
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
For now, Smith’s focus remains on Glasgow, but his comments suggest that an international return is only a matter of time. Will the WRU move fast to secure his services, or will the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) fight to keep him?
Either way, the battle for Smith’s signature could be just as intense as a Six Nations showdown.
