In a move that’s sure to spark debate among rugby fans, Benetton Rugby has appointed former Wales head coach Wayne Pivac as their new head coach, beating out high-profile contenders like ex-Springboks boss Jake White and Cardiff’s Corniel van Zyl. But here’s where it gets controversial—was Pivac truly the best choice, or did Benetton play it safe with a well-traveled but recently criticized coach? Let’s dive in.
The 63-year-old New Zealander, known for his globetrotting coaching career, has signed a long-term deal with the United Rugby Championship (URC) side until June 30, 2028, with an option to extend for two more seasons. This commitment underscores Benetton’s faith in Pivac’s ability to elevate the team, despite his mixed tenure with Wales. And this is the part most people miss—Pivac’s journey is a masterclass in adaptability, having coached across both hemispheres, from club to international level, including stints with Fiji and the Scarlets, where he famously led the Welsh side to the PRO12 title in 2016/17.
Starting his coaching career in 1997 with Northland, Pivac later took charge of Auckland (1999-2003) before his international breakthrough with Fiji (2004-2007). Returning to New Zealand, he honed his skills with North Harbour and Auckland in the National Provincial Championship, then ventured to Wales, where his dynamic style of rugby captivated fans. His success with the Scarlets, including a PRO14 final and a Champions Cup semi-final, earned him the Wales job in 2018. While he steered Wales to Six Nations glory in 2021, his departure a year later left some questioning his legacy. Most recently, he coached Japan’s NEC Green Rockets Tokatsu in 2023.
Benetton’s decision to choose Pivac over White and van Zyl raises eyebrows. Was it a strategic move to prioritize continuity and experience, or did they overlook fresher, potentially more innovative options? Pivac himself expressed enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I couldn’t say no to the opportunity to coach Benetton after facing them in Treviso with the Scarlets. I enjoyed every trip—the matches, the stadium, the people, and the Italian lifestyle. The challenge of taking the team to the next level is exciting.”
He added, “Working with Italy’s talented players and contributing to their growth is a huge motivator. I’m thrilled to join the Benetton Rugby family and aim to deliver a style of rugby that excites both players and fans.”
Benetton Rugby President Antonio Pavanello defended the decision, emphasizing the thoroughness of the selection process. “We evaluated 18 international candidates with top-tier experience. After careful analysis, Wayne Pivac emerged as the ideal leader for our sporting project.”
But here’s the burning question: Can Pivac replicate his past successes with Benetton, or will his appointment be remembered as a safe bet that fell short of expectations? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you think Benetton made the right call, or should they have taken a risk on a less proven but potentially more dynamic coach? The rugby world is watching, and only time will tell if Pivac’s appointment pays off.
