LYN JONES STEPS DOWN AS HEAD COACH OF THE DUTCH MEN’S XV

Amsterdam, April 15, 2025 – After three years at the helm, Lyn Jones has announced he will step down as head coach of the Dutch Men’s XV. The coming three months will mark his final period with Rugby Nederland. Since taking up the role on September 1, 2022, the former Welsh international has led Oranje with passion and dedication. A warm farewell will be organised on Monday, June 9, during the Eredivisie Men’s Final at the NRCA Stadium.

Under Jones’ leadership, the team achieved impressive results in the Rugby Europe Championship and the Super Cup, including a thrilling win over Rugby World Cup side Chile. He played a key role in the professionalisation of the technical staff and inspired both players and coaches with his Welsh charm and growing Dutch rugby heart. He brought the Oranje XV closer to the level of established European rugby nations such as Spain and Romania.

Jones also contributed significantly to Delta in the Rugby Europe Super Cup, where he and his staff raised the training standards, helping to identify and develop local Dutch talent.

On his departure, Lyn Jones said:

“The time has come to step down as head coach. I cannot stress enough how supportive everyone has been and how much I’ve enjoyed my time with the Dutch national team. With a new Rugby World Cup cycle beginning, now is the right moment for all parties to take a new path forward. We’ve developed a playing style suited to our strengths and embraced the challenge for both players and staff to keep growing. The road ahead calls for fresh, resilient leadership. I am eternally grateful for the commitment, hard work and enjoyment we’ve shared over these years.”

Friso Horstmeier, Chairman of Rugby Nederland, added:

“We are grateful to Lyn for his dedication, the impact he’s had across our development pathway, and for helping expand Rugby Nederland’s international network. His sense of humour will certainly be missed.”

In the coming months, Rugby Nederland – in collaboration with World Rugby advisors – will begin the process of appointing a new head coach to guide the next phase of development for Dutch rugby and the Oranje national teams.

Source: rugby.nl