Shaun Edwards is officially a free agent after his successful six-year spell with France came to an end, and the legendary defence coach has already made it clear where he would love to work next.

France head coach Fabien Galthié confirmed Edwards’ departure in June as part of a coaching reshuffle, ending one of the most successful partnerships in international rugby. During his time with Les Bleus, Edwards helped transform France into one of the world’s leading teams, winning three Six Nations titles, including a Grand Slam. 

Now available for the first time in years, the 59-year-old is expected to attract interest from across the rugby world.

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Edwards has already revealed his ambition

Earlier this year, Edwards admitted there is one major achievement still missing from his remarkable coaching CV.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live during the Six Nations, he said:

“I have an ambition to win a Rugby Championship, to be honest.

“I would love to be involved with the All Blacks or Springboks or Argentina maybe.

“Most of the World Cup winners have come from the southern hemisphere, and I would love to be able to pit myself against the top teams like that.”

Those comments are now more relevant than ever following his departure from the French setup.

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Could Fiji make the perfect move?

Although Edwards specifically mentioned New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina, another southern hemisphere vacancy could prove just as appealing.

Fiji remain on the hunt for a permanent head coach after Mick Byrne left the role earlier this year, with the Flying Fijians currently being led by an interim coaching team as they build towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup. 

Appointing Edwards would be a statement of intent. Widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive coaches the game has ever seen, he has enjoyed success with Wigan, Wasps, Wales, the British & Irish Lions and France.

With his dream of coaching in the southern hemisphere already on record and one of international rugby’s most exciting teams searching for a permanent boss, Fiji could offer Edwards the perfect opportunity to write the next chapter of his extraordinary coaching career.

Poll

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2027 Rugby World Cup draw:

Pool A

New Zealand – Perennial contenders with flair, power and unmatched rugby IQ.
Australia – Unpredictable but dangerous, capable of brilliance on their day.
Chile – Fast-improving newcomers bringing passion and fearless physicality.
Hong Kong China – Skillful, energetic, and eager to prove themselves on the global stage.

Pool B

South Africa – Brutal, relentless, and brutally efficient—never count them out.
Italy – Developing rapidly, mixing strong set-piece work with expanding ambition.
Georgia – Scrum specialists with raw forward strength and growing all-round polish.
Romania – Proud and powerful, known for toughness and unwavering fight.

Pool C

Argentina – Dynamic, crafty, and fiercely competitive with a never-say-die spirit.
Fiji – Magical offloads, searing pace, and unique unpredictability.
Spain – Determined climbers building consistency and confidence every year.
Canada – Physical and committed, working to regain their traditional sharpness.

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