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Sport: RugbyCountry: ItalyCategory: Scores & Results

Pivac takes charge of Benetton in Italy as head coach

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 5:06 AM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

Pivac takes charge of Benetton in Italy as head coach
Summary

Wayne Pivac is set to begin his role as head coach of Benetton, having signed a contract until June 2028 with the option for two additional years. Pivac's appointment follows a period where he faced challenges as the coach of Wales, culminating in a defeat to Georgia in 2022 that defined his tenure. He transitioned through a stint in Japan and returned to New Zealand before accepting the Benetton position, marking a return to the northern hemisphere. Pivac has enlisted Rhys Patchell as his attack coach, aiming to leverage their previous success together at Scarlets.

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By the Numbers
  • •Wayne Pivac signs with Benetton until June 2028.
  • •Pivac previously coached Wales, winning the 2021 Six Nations.
  • •He faced criticism after a loss to Georgia in 2022.
  • •Pivac had a coaching stint in Japan before returning home.
  • •Rhys Patchell joins as attack coach from Cardiff.
Latest Updates
  • 5:06 AMYahoo Sports — Pivac comes out of semi-retirement for new Italy life
  • 5:05 AMBBC Sport — Pivac comes out of semi-retirement for new Italy life
What they're saying
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Things could have been very different for Pivac had his time as Wales coach worked out but he paid the price for losing at home to Georgia in 2022.

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Things could have been very different for Pivac had his time as Wales coach worked out but he paid the price for losing at home to Georgia in 2022.

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