Kevin Walters Confirmed as Kangaroos Coach for 2026 World Cup

Kevin Walters has been confirmed as the coach for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. This follows a successful 3-0 Ashes series win against England.
By Newsroom | Sports, Rugby League |

Kevin Walters has been confirmed as the coach for the upcoming 2026 Rugby League World Cup, following a two-year contract extension announced Friday afternoon. The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) finalized the decision, with chairman Peter V'landys stating the move was supported by player feedback.

Walters' appointment, confirmed today, secures his role through the 2026 World Cup hosted in Australia.

Walters' interim tenure began with a commanding 3-0 series whitewash against England in the Ashes. This performance, coupled with positive player responses, appears to have solidified his position despite earlier speculation and a lack of immediate confirmation. The extension addresses a contract that was set to expire on June 30, 2026, and now sees him lead the Kangaroos through the World Cup and the 2027 Pacific Championships.

"I never thought in my wildest dreams I'd be the Kangaroos coach in a World Cup."

The decision to retain Walters comes after a period of uncertainty regarding the national team's coaching future leading up to the tournament. Reports from earlier this year indicated that negotiations were expected following the Las Vegas double-header, and his current deal was initially a short-term arrangement.

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Contractual Path to Confirmation

Walters initially took the coaching reins following Mal Meninga's departure for the Perth Bears, securing a three-match contract for the Ashes tour. His prior coaching experience includes leading Brisbane to a Grand Final and Queensland to State of Origin series wins.

Sources from late 2025 and early 2026 indicated Walters' desire to continue in the role, particularly for a World Cup on home soil. Player endorsements, such as from Kotoni Staggs, also hinted at Walters' retention being a factor in player availability.

"I was very impressed with the feedback from the Kangaroos players when they were surveyed, giving Kevin enormous praise as a coach and motivator."

The ARLC's confirmation today appears to quell any lingering doubts, including criticism from figures like Andrew Voss regarding the perceived "farcical handling" of the coaching appointment process. While Cameron Smith has previously expressed interest in the role, Walters' successful Ashes campaign has seemingly put an end to that possibility for now.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is the new coach for the Australian Kangaroos for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup?
Kevin Walters has been confirmed as the coach for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. He has signed a contract extension that will see him lead the team through the tournament.
Q: Why was Kevin Walters chosen as the Kangaroos coach?
The Australian Rugby League Commission chose Walters after positive feedback from the players and his success in coaching the team to a 3-0 Ashes series win against England.
Q: How long will Kevin Walters coach the Kangaroos?
His contract has been extended to cover the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, which will be held in Australia. He will also coach during the 2027 Pacific Championships.
Q: What was Kevin Walters' previous coaching experience before this role?
Walters has coached Brisbane to a Grand Final and led Queensland to State of Origin series wins. He was also the interim coach for the Ashes series.
Q: Was there any doubt about Kevin Walters' appointment?
Yes, there was some uncertainty and criticism about the handling of the coaching appointment process. However, his recent success and player support have secured his position.