Jake White won’t be returning to the Vodacom URC just yet, after missing out on the opportunity to coach a leading Italian side.
Wayne Pivac beat White to the vacant Benetton post, with the club confirming that the former Wales boss will take charge from next season on a deal running until June 2028, with the option of a further two years.
The appointment carries a strong South African subplot. White, the former Springbok World Cup-winning coach and Vodacom Bulls director of rugby, had been linked to the Treviso-based outfit in recent weeks. Cardiff coach Corniel van Zyl was also reportedly in the mix.
Instead, Benetton have opted for the experienced New Zealander.
The 63-year-old brings a globetrotting CV. He has coached in both hemispheres at club and Test levels, led Fiji, guided Wales to a Six Nations title in 2021 and most recently worked in Japan with NEC Green Rockets Tokatsu.
Now he heads to Italy with a clear brief: build on what’s been laid before him and take Benetton to the next level.
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“I couldn’t say no to the opportunity to coach Benetton after facing them in Treviso with the Scarlets,” said Pivac.
“I enjoyed every trip: the matches, the stadium, the people and the Italian lifestyle. The challenge of taking the team to the next level and giving continuity to the work done by previous coaches is exciting.
“Being able to work with some incredibly talented Italian players and contribute to their development is an additional source of motivation for me.”
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