Simon Raiwalui has revealed he will not seek an extension as Fiji coach, saying he wants to return “home”.
While he impressed the rugby world with his efforts in France, and many Australian fans would like to see the former Wallabies assistant return to the fold Down Under, it’s understood Raiwalui’s next job is not with Rugby Australia or a Super Rugby franchise.
The former Flying Fijian captain turned coach join the FRU following the 2019 World Cup, where he became their general manager of high performance.
During his stint, he was pivotal in the Fiji Drua’s inclusion in Super Rugby Pacific. Under his watch, Fiji also won a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics while the women’s side took bronze.
Raiwalui was asked in dramatic circumstances to take over from Vern Cotter earlier this year as Fiji’s head coach.
He not only led Fiji to a historic maiden victory against England at Twickenham, he oversaw their first win over the Wallabies in 69 years at the World Cup.
Their 22-15 victory over Eddie Jones’ side in Saint Etienne put them on the track to reach the knockout stages for the first time since 2007.
Although they stumbled against Portugal in a dramatic encounter in Toulouse a fortnight later, the losing point saw them knock Australia out of the World Cup.
Despite being heavy underdogs against England, the Flying Fijians came within a converted try of knocking over the 2003 world champions.
On Tuesday, less than 48 hours after Fiji was knocked out by England, Raiwalui confirmed he would not seek reappointment.
“Well I guess it is time to make it official, specifically what the next cycle will look like for Fiji Rugby…I will not be seeking an extension of employment with FRU past 31st December,” Raiwalui tweeted.
“Thanks again to the players, staff & all the supporters, it has been quite a ride!”
Where Raiwalui heads next remains to be seen, but The Roar understands he has already secured his next move.
Unfortunately for Rugby Australia, nor their Super Rugby sides, it’s not believed to be a role that will see him return to his former national union.
Indeed, Raiwalui spent 18 months with the Wallabies as he jumped on board Michael Cheika’s coaching team ahead of the 2019 World Cup.
Despite the Wallabies struggling in Japan, where they were beaten badly by Jones’ England in Oita, the lineout, which was overseen by Raiwalui, was one of the few areas that functioned well.
Raiwalui, who spent years away from his family during the Covid pandemic, did however hint that he would be returning to Australia, where his family remains.
“I have missed my wife & kids birthdays, our wedding anniversary, picking my daughter up from school, drinking a beer with my sons, walking the dog, etc, for the last 4 years…they have shared enough, it’s time to go home!” he tweeted.
Raiwalui could easily be picked up by a French club, where he started his coaching career, but schools in Australia would also be an ideal fit for a man highly regarded.
If that was to occur, it would also see Raiwalui stay in the Australian rugby ecosystem.
The former backrower’s demeanour and coaching style has been celebrated throughout the World Cup.
“I’m all about respecting who we are and who we’re playing. If you don’t treat people well, it normally comes back to you and if you don’t treat the players well and the staff well, they can turn against you,” Raiwalui told The Roar earlier this month.
“I’ve always lived off the philosophy, you treat people how you want to be treated.
“I love the game. It’s provided me everything in my life. I came from pretty humble beginnings in life and rugby gave me the opportunity to travel the world and play and earn a living and take my family to beautiful places, so I want to respect that.
“I can obviously get angry at times, but I like to control my emotions as much as possible.”
Raiwalui will be the guest on this week’s Roar Rugby podcast.
Brett McKay
Expert
Could easily be filling a development role for World Rugby, for just one eg..
Brett McKay
Expert
Embedded in the top of every rugby story, Ken...
Ken Catchpole's Other Leg
Roar Guru
Been looking for it Brett. Where does the Roar hide it?
Just Nuisance
Roar Rookie
I think asked and answered Ken.. :rugby:
Harry Jones
Expert
Thanks, man!
Just Nuisance
Roar Rookie
Just got to watch the interview Harry ( time zones ) …What an amazing guy …I did pose a question and thought you asked it but of course in your own diplomatic rather than my usual abrasive way .So ..if true am honoured ..My take away …Plug into the countries culture and then apply it as best possible to the team strategy.. ….loved it ..Best podcast ever ..yes even better than the Beast..I so appreciate it too.
Bliksem
Roar Rookie
Probably late. Would like to know if he see a change in the way officials and coaches are interacting (and improvement maybe).
Kerry Humphries
Roar Rookie
So next role hopes to be within Australia but not RA or any super rugby sides…twiggy’s new rebel rugby competition? But seriously if staying in rugby and in Australia what else is there?
Train Without A Station
Roar Guru
Would you take the wallabies gig Simon? :laughing:
Ken Catchpole's Other Leg
Roar Guru
Maybe we could change RA enough to make Oz rugby an attraction for a coach like Simon? Fiji have been excellent.
Brendan NH Fan
Roar Rookie
One of the hardest things for Professional sports people is to walk away. Many do but they miss all that goes with it. Being retired or working in another industry is just not the same. Joe has said he doesn't want to be involved any more but he will be back somewhere in a few years.
Cec
Roar Rookie
Great interview Brett and Harry. Simon is so humble. Good rugby discussion!
Cec
Roar Rookie
Classic post Ken. I’m in stitches :laughing:
ScrumStability
Roar Rookie
He come across as a very mature and sensible person. We could use that common sense in our set-up. Totally understand and respect his wishes to be closer to home and family. Hats off to him for what he has achieved with Fiji.
Nivlek
Roar Rookie
The podcast is a great chat. I was very impressed with the down to earth and mature way Simon conducted himself throughout the World Cup. We could use a bit of that Aussie rugby. It’s a real shame he isn’t moving on into a gig with RA… but one day hopefully.
Bobby
Roar Rookie
He certainly did well for Fiji, maybe a little better than as an Assistant under Chek. I met the bloke a few years ago and I took 2 things away with me. 1. He is a terrific bloke, and 2. He is a giant physically. Wish him well in new endeavours !
AndyS
Roar Rookie
Gotta say, if you wanted someone who could bring some gravitas to an academy system and give some kids a reason to stick with Union. Or maybe do something useful in Western Sydney, provided he got some genuine support...
Brett McKay
Expert
Do take the time to have a listen to our chat with Simon if you can, it will quite likely confirm everything you thought about the man and the coach - it certainly did for Harry and I. And he did indeed confirm that the next role, while he hopes to be based in Australia, won't be with RA or any Australian sides..
Kai Levuka
Roar Rookie
Vinaka vaka levu Saimoni! All the best in your future endeavours.
Old Bugger
Roar Rookie
Yes but Joe, always had a burning desire to be involved with the ABs while Simon, has already “been there, done that”, with the WBs.