Shaun Edwards joins Argentina as defence coach ahead of 2027 World Cup

Shaun Edwards has signed with Argentina through the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. Mario Ledesma will also join Felipe Contepomi's coaching staff.

The 59-year-old will start working with Los Pumas at the end of October. He is currently assisting England's women's team under John Mitchell and is due to complete that assignment after the WXV Global Series ends on October 30.

That schedule puts Edwards in place for Argentina's Nations Championship matches in Europe in November. His agreement covers the following season and the 2027 World Cup in Australia.

The appointment ends speculation about a possible move to Steve Borthwick's England men's team. Edwards previously oversaw France's defence during their Six Nations title wins in 2022, 2025 and 2026. Before that, he worked in the Wales coaching staff from 2008 to 2019.

Ledesma will take charge of the forwards. He returns to Los Pumas after serving as Argentina's head coach from 2018 to 2022.

Contepomi said the two coaches' international experience would support Argentina's preparations for the World Cup. Edwards said he had long admired the skill of Argentine players and looked forward to sharing his experience with the squad.