The Cardiff Arms Park outfit have confirmed Corniel van Zyl will take on the role as head coach on a permanent basis
Cardiff have confirmed Corniel van Zyl as their new head coach.
The South African has been in charge at the Arms Park this season, having taken over after former head coach Matt Sherratt joined Wales’ coaching staff on the eve of the season.
Prior to that, he had served as the club’s forward coach – having been contracted in that role for at least one more season after joining the club in 2024.
Currently leading the Blue and Blacks on a United Rugby Championship play-off tilt this season, van Zyl, who previously has never been referred to by the club as head coach, has now been confirmed as their new boss.
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The news comes with Cardiff looking to seal their first-ever top eight finish in the URC.
After penning what is described as a “long-term deal”, he said: “It is such an honour and privilege to take the lead at Cardiff as we enter our 150th season. It is a club full of history and with a very exciting future ahead.
“I am very thankful for the opportunity and challenge that lies ahead and grateful to Jamie and the board for their backing.
“The mission is very simple – to improve every aspect of Cardiff Rugby. From all departments, resources, staff and players, we want to continuing growing, focusing on the finer details and margins to ensure we keep progressing in the right direction.
“We talk a lot about fight, enjoyment and growth, and ultimately, we want to keep building on those behaviours. We will keep on fighting, endeavour to play an enjoyable brand of rugby and grow from match to match and season to season.
“On a personal level, I absolutely love the club. It is an environment with so many people – staff, players, sponsors and supporters – that care deeply about the badge. That is my motivation to keep driving us forward.
“My family are very settled here in Cardiff. It is a family-focused club within an amazing city and country. We are very pleased to be staying long-term with this opportunity and are excited by the future at the Arms Park.”
Earlier this season, van Zyl held talks with Benetton over their head coaching vacancy.
However, the Italian club – where he played for eight years – ultimately appointed former Wales coach Wayne Pivac.
Cardiff Rugby managing director Jamie Muir said after the appointment: “We are really pleased to formally appoint Corniel as our new head coach on a long-term basis.
“We have built a strong working relationship this season and I have seen at first-hand the standards he brings and drives every day.
“It is a significant appointment for the club and one that has the full backing of myself and the board. We believe Corniel is the right person to lead our rugby programme and to continue strengthening every aspect of our high-performance environment.
“We didn’t want to rush into a decision when Matt Sherratt departed but we have all been so impressed with Corniel. He brings a different edge to the club, and a real competitive mindset combined with calm leadership.
“We are excited about the direction we are heading and are confident that with the guidance and leadership from Corniel and his staff, we can continue building a squad and culture our supporters can be proud of.
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