### Warren Gatland Speaks Out on Surprise Role with Uruguayan Rugby Club
In a move that has caught many in the rugby world off guard, Warren Gatland, the renowned New Zealand coach best known for his two successful stints with Wales, has spoken publicly for the first time about his new advisory role with Uruguay’s leading rugby side, Penarol. The seasoned coach, just months removed from guiding Wales, is setting his sights on fresh ground in South America as he aims to help elevate Uruguayan rugby on both the club and international stage.
Gatland’s latest challenge comes as Penarol head towards the highly anticipated Super Rugby Americas (SRA) play-off finals, an event that will see the Montevideo-based club pitted against the continent’s best. Additionally, his remit extends beyond the club itself, as he will be offering his expertise to Uruguay’s national side in their campaign to secure a place at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. The national team faces tough Rugby World Cup qualifiers, beginning with Paraguay and potentially culminating in a showdown with either Chile or Brazil.
Speaking about his new environment, Gatland admitted that Uruguay represented a step into the unfamiliar. “This is my first visit here,” he said. “While I’ve been to Argentina a number of times, Uruguay itself is new territory for me. It’s comparable in size to New Zealand but with a smaller population.” Underlining the significance of relocating so far from home, Gatland also revealed that he took the time to research the country’s economic and political stability, noting, “It was important to understand how safe and stable Uruguay is within South America.”
In making the transition, Gatland sought advice from trusted friends, among them Craig White, a former collaborator with Uruguay during previous World Cups. Gatland recalled, “Craig reassured me I’d be well looked after – that the people here are incredibly friendly and hospitable. That gave me a lot of confidence coming into this role.”
Evidently enthusiastic about his new position, Gatland has wasted no time getting to grips with the club’s routine. “I’m delighted to be here – after facing Uruguay a few times at World Cups, it’s great to work within the system and see how much rugby has grown in the country,” he explained. “It’s only my second day, but I’m genuinely impressed by the players’ attitudes, the coaches’ methods, and the level of organisational preparation.”
One hurdle, however, has become immediately apparent. “My Spanish is a work in progress,” he admitted with a smile, “so I’m focusing on learning names and some common phrases. Communication is always key, but the players’ commitment comes across whatever the language.”
Despite the language barrier, Gatland has been struck by the calibre of the squad. “Their dedication is obvious, and as I watch them prepare for what’s a massive weekend, I’m optimistic about what they can achieve,” he commented. The coach also pointed to Uruguay’s progress in the shorter format of the game: “Having followed some of Uruguay’s Sevens players on the world circuit, I’ve seen first-hand the skill and athleticism they bring. Some of those standout talents are with us at Penarol now, and it’s exciting to see their potential up close.”
As Penarol gears up for a season-defining fixture and the Uruguayan national side prepares for its pivotal qualification matches, Gatland’s arrival signals an ambitious new chapter for rugby in the region. His wealth of top-level experience could prove instrumental in furthering both the club’s and the country’s international aspirations.
Above all, Gatland’s early impressions are positive. “It’s an exciting time. The team is full of athletic, skilful players, and I look forward to helping them reach new heights over the coming weeks and months,” he concluded.
Warren Gatland’s journey in South American rugby looks set to reignite his passion for the sport and may well bring unprecedented attention and growth to Uruguay’s rugby scene. As the stakes rise, both Penarol and the Uruguayan national team will hope their bold recruit is the catalyst needed to make a mark on the region and the global rugby map.