Rob Penney will continue as head coach of the Crusaders in 2026, after tasting his first Super Rugby Pacific success this year. 

After a tumultuous and underwhelming campaign in his first season in 2024, the Crusaders bounced back to claim their 13th full title, defeating the Chiefs 16-12 in last month’s final. 

The new deal is for one year only. 

Penney retained his job 12 months ago following an in-depth external review and repaid the Crusaders’ board’s faith by delivering the Super Rugby Pacific trophy back to Crusaders HQ at Rugby Park. 

He’ll be assisted by the same coaching group: James Marshall, Matt Todd, Dan Perrin and Brad Mooar. 

Penney’s new deal coincides with the opening of Christchurch’s new covered stadium. 

Crusaders coach Rob Penney (left) with departing Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan. Photo / Photosport 

“That hasn’t gone unnoticed by everyone – myself included,“ the 61-year-old said. 

“To finally get an opportunity to get on the grass inside that beautiful colosseum. It’ll be just such a great occasion to have the first year in there.” 

Just when that first game will take place is yet to be confirmed. The draw for the 2026 season is due to be released in the next fortnight. The practical completion date for the new One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha is April 20, 2026. 

The stadium is being considered to host the Super Round over Anzac weekend (April 24-26) next year. Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge did little to temper expectations today by saying that the new stadium would be “the only place to be in New Zealand I think, that weekend”. 

Mike Thorpe is a senior multimedia journalist for the Herald, based in Christchurch. He has been a broadcast journalist across television and radio for 20 years and joined the Herald in August 2024.