Former All Blacks assistant Scott Hansen heading back to Crusaders as head coach

The Crusaders will have a new coach next year with axed All Blacks assistant Scott Hansen replacing Rob Penney.

Penney took over from Scott Robertson in 2024 and in that time has had mixed results. The Crusaders finished ninth in the 2024 Super Rugby competition and failed to make the play-offs.

They won their 13th title in 2025 and currently sit fourth on the 2026 table with one round remaining.

Hansen takes over after being an All Blacks' assistant coach under former head coach Robertson, who was sacked as national coach earlier this year. Hansen was a Crusaders' assistant under Robertson between 2020 and 2022.

Hansen wasn't retained as an All Blacks assistant when new head coach Dave Rennie confirmed his coaching group.

"It's been an honour of a lifetime to be the head coach of the Crusaders, but the time is right for me to step away from the role after three seasons," Penney said.

With just four wins in the 2024 season Penney's position came under scrutiny but following a review he was retained for another season. Following their title winning season in 2025 Penney was signed on for another year.

"I have been so very fortunate to be a small part of the Crusaders over the last three years and am very excited as we once again head into a finals campaign with a team very capable of going the whole way. There are too many people to thank, this special place will always be a part of me and my family."

A Crusaders statement said Penney's decision to step aside was his own.

Hansen played halfback for the Crusaders during the inaugural Super 12 season in 1996.

His coaching career spans 13 years including roles with the Japanese national team, the Sunwolves, Leicester Tigers, Kobelco Steelers, New Zealand U20s and the All Blacks XV.

"This club has experienced sustained success over a long period of time, and that doesn't happen by accident. We can continue that legacy by turning up every day, learning together, and pushing to be the best we can be. I'm really looking forward to working with this group and moving forward together."

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