'The decision is made': Nienaber to step down as Springbok coach after World Cup

Jacques Nienaber will finish his run as Springbok coach at the end of this year's Rugby World Cup in France, SA Rugby announced on Saturday. 

Nienaber will take up a coaching position at Leinster in Ireland next year.

According to a SA Rugby press release, Nienaber cited personal reasons for the decision.

"The last few years have been the highlight of my coaching career and it's with a heavy heart that I’m finishing up my time with the Springboks and leaving the country for personal reasons," said Nienaber.

"The decision is made and that’s firmly behind me now."

Nienaber insists that his focus remained on the major task of the year, which was to give everything in the Springboks' defence of their Rugby World Cup title.

"My sole focus is on seeing the Springboks defend the Rugby World Cup title this year. I will continue to channel all my energy into ensuring that we leave no stone unturned to achieve that."

Nienaber has served several roles within the South African rugby structures, which include as a Springbok assistant coach at the 2011 and 2019 Rugby World Cups before stepping into the head coaching role in 2020.

SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer stated that Nienaber's successor will be confirmed in due course but that World Cup-winning coach Rassie Erasmus remains an integral part of the organisation.

"Jacques was very open with us about the reasons for wanting to leave South Africa at the end of the season," said Oberholzer.

"We will confirm a successor in the title role of Springbok coach in due course - that planning will go on in the background, but Rassie Erasmus' services are locked to the end of 2025 at the very least."

In preparation for the World Cup, the Springboks will kick off the international season against Australia