**Warren Gatland Revels in Triumphant Scenes as Penarol Clinch Super Rugby Americas Title**
Warren Gatland, the former Wales rugby supremo, has experienced an unexpected resurgence in his rugby journey after playing an influential role in guiding Uruguayan side Penarol to a dramatic Super Rugby Americas triumph. Gatland, well known for his leadership of Wales and the British & Irish Lions, was at the centre of jubilant changing room celebrations after Penarol snatched victory over Dogos XV by a razor-thin margin of 35-34.
The highly experienced coach only recently joined Penarol in an advisory capacity at the end of May, following a turbulent Six Nations campaign that saw Wales endure a painful losing streak and Gatland step away from his post in Cardiff mid-tournament. His brief sojourn in South America, however, has ended with a remarkable turnaround and a fresh trophy to his name.
Photographs and videos circulated by Penarol showcased a visibly ecstatic Gatland joining the squad in unbridled celebrations. In one memorable moment, he was captured alongside forwards coach Conrado Gonzalez, both grinning from ear to ear, whilst players bedecked in yellow and black lifted the Super Rugby Americas trophy aloft. In a particularly light-hearted twist, the club even posted a humorous homage to the film ‘The Hangover’ to encapsulate their raucous dressing room festivities.
This latest achievement marks Penarol’s third championship win since the launch of the league back in 2021. Notably, on each occasion, the Uruguayan side has triumphed over Argentinian rivals Dogos to secure the title, underlining their impressive consistency at the top of the tournament. Penarol’s victory carries added significance, shining a spotlight on Uruguayan rugby at a time when national hopes are building towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Gatland’s involvement is widely expected to leave a lasting legacy in Uruguayan rugby circles. His presence has not only provided valuable tactical insight, but also helped elevate the profile of the domestic game just two years ahead of the next World Cup. Given Uruguay’s growing reputation—having captured hearts alongside Portugal at the 2023 World Cup—momentum is on their side as they look to make an even greater impression on the global stage.
Reflecting on how his Penarol adventure came about, Gatland recently revealed he was persuaded by close confidant Craig White, who himself had been involved with Uruguay at previous World Cups. “He told me, ‘you’ll have a fantastic time, the people are incredibly friendly and hospitable’. It’s been great to see rugby’s development here over the years, and I’ve enjoyed being part of this journey,” Gatland explained in the run-up to the final.
While Gatland’s chapter with Penarol has now drawn to a close, his rugby expertise is set to be in demand once again. He is poised to return to the analyst’s chair for Sky Sports, joining a star-studded team for coverage of the upcoming British & Irish Lions tour to Australia. The line-up features rugby luminaries such as Ireland legend Ronan O’Gara, Wales greats Dan Biggar and Sam Warburton, and the likes of Will Greenwood, Kyle Sinckler, and Sir Ian McGeechan, among others.
Penarol’s latest victory over Dogos adds another exciting chapter in South American club rugby’s evolving narrative, with the prospect of Gatland’s input already being hailed as transformational for the Uruguayan rugby community. What remains to be seen is whether the esteemed coach will have any further involvement in Uruguay’s preparations ahead of the World Cup or if his latest triumph marks the end of his South American adventure.
In the immediate term, all eyes turn to the British & Irish Lions, who take on Argentina in their opening tour match at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on 20 June. Gatland’s insights, both from the coaching box and the commentary booth, will no doubt continue to enrich the rugby landscape on both sides of the Atlantic.