Unlike many recently retired internationals, McCaw did not immediately move into coaching, punditry or rugby administration.<\/p>\n
Instead, the 148-cap flanker largely stepped away from the sport and built an entirely different life away from the weekly pressures of Test rugby.<\/p>\n
That is what would make his potential return to the All Blacks environment particularly surprising.<\/p>\n
McCaw\u2019s possible All Blacks role<\/p>\n
McCaw is reportedly being considered for a leadership and mentoring position as New Zealand continue their preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.<\/p>\n
The role would not necessarily involve hands-on coaching. Instead, McCaw could work with the squad\u2019s senior players and leadership group, passing on the experience that helped him captain the All Blacks to consecutive World Cup triumphs in 2011 and 2015.<\/p>\n
His appearance around an All Blacks training camp in 2025 initially appeared informal, but it has since increased speculation that New Zealand Rugby would like to make greater use of his knowledge.<\/p>\n
McCaw has previously shown little interest in pursuing a traditional coaching career, meaning a specialist mentoring position could provide the perfect route back into international rugby.<\/p>\n
What has Richie McCaw done since retiring?<\/p>\n
The 45-year-old has kept himself remarkably busy since bringing his playing career to an end.<\/p>\n
Helicopter pilot<\/p>\n
McCaw became a commercial helicopter pilot and worked full-time for Christchurch Helicopters between 2016 and 2019. He remains involved with the company, where he has held positions as a director and shareholder.<\/p>\n
He also used his flying skills during the aftermath of the 2016 Kaik\u014dura earthquake, helping with rescue, reconnaissance and the delivery of supplies to affected communities.<\/p>\n
Adventure racing<\/p>\n
McCaw has become heavily involved in endurance and adventure racing, competing in gruelling events involving running, cycling and kayaking across some of New Zealand\u2019s most challenging terrain.<\/p>\n
His events have included GODZONE expedition races and the Coast to Coast challenge across the South Island.<\/p>\n
In 2025, he helped establish the Pure Adventure Charitable Trust, which was formed to bring the GODZONE race back to the calendar and promote adventure racing in New Zealand.<\/p>\n
LATEST RUGBY NEWS<\/p>\n
More than a decade after retiring, Richie McCaw is still regarded as one of rugby\u2019s greatest-ever players. The former All Blacks captain dominated the sport for over a decade, winning almost every honour available before walking away at the top.<\/p>\n
Here are 15 facts about the New Zealand legend.<\/p>\n
1. He is the only men\u2019s captain to win two Rugby World Cups<\/p>\n
McCaw lifted the Webb Ellis Cup in both 2011 and 2015, cementing his place among rugby\u2019s all-time greats.<\/p>\n
2. He grew up on a sheep and cattle farm<\/p>\n
Long before becoming an All Blacks icon, McCaw spent his childhood helping on his family\u2019s farm near Kurow in New Zealand\u2019s South Island.<\/p>\n
3. He captained New Zealand 110 times<\/p>\n
No player has led the All Blacks in more Test matches than McCaw.<\/p>\n
4. He is a qualified helicopter pilot<\/p>\n
Flying has always been one of McCaw\u2019s biggest passions, and he has even worked as a commercial helicopter pilot since retiring.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.ruck.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/25017618_155336398440119_61159209013608448_n.jpg-1024x768.avif\"\/)
<\/a><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Screenshot-2026-07-11-at-05.22.47-1-983x1024.png.webp\"\/)
<\/a><\/p>\n