Discover the remarkable journey of Clark Laidlaw, the Super Rugby champion coach making waves in New Zealand rugby.
Clark Laidlaw, son of legendary Scotland scrum-half Roy Laidlaw, has established himself as a elite rugby coach in New Zealand. After moving to the southern hemisphere 18 years ago, he recently guided the Hurricanes to a dominant Super Rugby championship title in late June.
Operating alongside fellow Scottish expats like Mike Blair, Euan Mackintosh, and Adam Hay, Laidlaw has transitioned from a school-leaver in Jedburgh to a celebrated coach in charge of top-tier professional teams, according to information published by BBC.
While his father Roy won 47 caps for Scotland and four for the British and Irish Lions, Clark is now building an exceptional coaching legacy abroad, featuring successful stints with the New Zealand Sevens team and leading the Hurricanes.
Clark Laidlaw Super Rugby Success
Laidlaw spent three seasons in charge of the Hurricanes, culminating in a dominant campaign where they finished top of the regular season table. They defeated the Brumbies 66-12, beat the Blues 57-21 in the semi-final, and dismantled the Chiefs 60-5 in the final.
Reflecting on his journey, Laidlaw explained that he was curious to see what existed outside of Jedburgh. He left Scotland at age 30 for Taranaki on the north island, seeking different ways to look at the game and life itself.
Influence of New Zealand Culture
Life in New Zealand fundamentally changed Laidlaw as a man, husband, and father. He credits Maori and Pacific Island culture with smoothing out his aggressive Scottish tendencies, instilling greater empathy and understanding.
During his time with the New Zealand Sevens, where he secured Commonwealth Games gold, World Cup Sevens gold, and an Olympic silver medal in Tokyo, he learned the importance of nurturing young players far away from home.
Future Prospects and Scotland Job Link
With Gregor Townsend's tenure as Scotland head coach eventually concluding, Laidlaw admitted he would welcome a conversation about the role. However, he remains entirely focused on his ongoing commitments with the Hurricanes.
Eight of Laidlaw's Hurricanes players currently feature in Dave Rennie's touring squad. Laidlaw proudly holds a New Zealand passport now, yet he still passionately supports the Scottish national team ahead of their Murrayfield fixture.
Roy Laidlaw Health Update
Back in Scotland, his famous father Roy lives in a care home in Jedburgh while battling dementia. Family members, alongside former rugby greats John Rutherford and Keith Robertson, regularly visit to support him.
Clark acknowledges that moving back to Scotland remains a possibility in the future. Deep down, he hopes his father recognizes the incredible heights his son has reached in the global game of rugby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Clark Laidlaw?
Clark Laidlaw is a Scottish rugby coach and son of rugby legend Roy Laidlaw, currently working in New Zealand where he led the Hurricanes to a Super Rugby title.
What did Clark Laidlaw achieve in Super Rugby?
He coached the Hurricanes to finish top of the table and win the 2026 Super Rugby championship, defeating teams like the Brumbies, Blues, and Chiefs.
Will Clark Laidlaw become the next Scotland coach?
Laidlaw stated he would welcome a conversation about the Scotland job after Gregor Townsend moves on, though his current focus remains firmly on the Hurricanes.
How has New Zealand culture influenced Clark Laidlaw?
Living in New Zealand for 18 years and working with Maori and Pacific Island cultures helped temper his aggressive Scottish side, fostering greater empathy.
