Fiji: Vern Cotter steps down as head coach with immediate effect

Fiji have been dealt a huge setback just over eight months out from the Rugby World Cup in France with the news that their head coach, Vern Cotter, has stepped down from his position with immediate effect.

Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) chairman Humphrey Tawake said his organisation had accepted Cotter’s letter of resignation and that a new coach will be appointed “in due course”.

A press statement on the FRU’s official website said: “Fiji Rugby Union {FRU} has today accepted the resignation of Flying Fijians head coach Vern Cotter who has decided to resign from his role with immediate effect due to personal reasons.

“FRU takes this opportunity to thank Vern Cotter for his services to Fiji Rugby and the Flying Fijians. FRU has begun the process to recruit a new Flying Fijians coach that will take the Team 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

“FRU wishes Vern Cotter all the best in his future career.”

Regrets abrupt departure

Cotter also issued a statement in which he expressed regret about his abrupt exit.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the players and coaches I have worked with during my time with the team,” he said.

“I feel the team has made some significant improvements over the last few years both on and off the field.

“I believe we built a great culture which was testament to some good people working hard and enjoying each other’s company and I’m disappointed to be leaving at this time.”

Cotter took over the coaching reins of the Flying Fijians from fellow New Zealander John McKee and previously had head coaching stints with Scotland (2014-2017), Clermont Auvergne (2006-2014) and Montpellier (2017-2019).

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