'Hardest decision of my life': Scotland head coach Sione Fukofuka steps down as interim appointment made

The Australian, who was appointed in December last year, is returning home, with Scottish Rugby citing “personal and family reasons” behind his departure. The former United States head coach has described it as “probably the hardest professional decision” of his life.

Fukofuka was appointed Scotland boss in December last year and led the national team during the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations where they avoided the Wooden Spoon courtesy of a memorable 24-19 win over Wales at the Principality Stadium in Round One. The squad is due to assemble again soon with the 2026 WXV Series kicking off next month.

Scotland head coach requests release on compassionate grounds

Forward’s coach Dave Butcher will take charge as interim head coach with Scotland set to face Canada, New Zealand and Australia at the Hive in September. They then face a double header away to the Wallaroos in October.

Speaking on his decision, Fukofuka said: “I’ve had to make probably the hardest professional decision of my life to step away from the role as Head Coach. I approached Scottish Rugby and asked for a release from my contract under compassionate grounds.

“Effectively, the stress and the strain on my family, who are back in Australia away from me, proved too much to continue to on and to do this role the way it should be time. With the time back home in Australia over the summer, it was able to give me a lot more insight into the sacrifices that they’re making, on top of those that I make as well.

“We also had a change in circumstances where, unfortunately, my wife’s parents are unwell, so that means the family relocating in the 12-month plan that we had is not feasible anymore. I can’t be away from my family for that amount of time and do the job the way it should be done.

“I was pretty direct and honest with David Nucifora, Andy Rhys-Jones and Gemma Fay and all three of them were fantastic in understanding that this is not a rugby decision. It has nothing to do with Scottish Rugby or the programme – in fact that is what made it so hard – and it’s everything to do with what my family are sacrificing and what I’m missing out on being at home and being a father and a husband, and the fact that we’re not now in a position for them to relocate and come and join me, which has changed the circumstances that were initially part of our plan when I signed on to undertake the role.”

Scottish Rugby Performance Director David Nucifora added: “I would like to thank Sione for his contribution to Scottish Rugby and whilst we are disappointed to see him depart, we fully respect and understand the reasons why he has made this decision. During his time in the role, Sione showed great passion and commitment to the national team and the wider women’s programme at Scottish Rugby.

“Our priority remains supporting the women’s national team and women’s programme players and staff during this period, with work being done to ensure appropriate structures are in place ahead of WXV Global Series along with long term recruitment conversations.”

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