Warren Gatland could become world’s highest-paid rugby coach in stunning new role – Exclusive

The former Wales and British & Irish Lions head coach is among the high-profile names being discussed as the Americans look at how they can build a genuinely competitive Test side over the next five years.

RUCK sources have stressed that no negotiations have taken place at this stage, with USA Rugby still contemplating the structure and scale of their plans.

However, should they decide to pursue Gatland, it is understood the financial package required to secure a coach of his experience and profile could be enormous.

The United States will host the men's Rugby World Cup for the first time in 2031, and there is an acceptance that significant investment will be required if the Eagles are to make an impact on home soil.

The potential pursuit of Gatland would bear similarities to the United States' approach in football, with US Soccer securing former Tottenham, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

USA Rugby could now look to make their own statement appointment.

Gatland's CV makes him an obvious candidate.

The 62-year-old led Wales through four World Cup campaigns across his two spells in charge, reaching the semi-finals in both 2011 and 2019.

He also served as head coach of the British & Irish Lions on three consecutive tours, masterminding the famous series victory over Australia in 2013 and the drawn series against New Zealand four years later.

Two of the biggest coaching names in world rugby are effectively unavailable for the project.

Ireland have secured Andy Farrell through the 2031 Rugby World Cup, while double World Cup-winning Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus is also contracted with South Africa through the tournament.

That potentially makes Gatland one of the most decorated and recognisable coaches realistically available to spearhead such an ambitious long-term project.

Gatland has been without a permanent international coaching role since leaving Wales during the 2025 Six Nations, although he has subsequently remained involved in the game.

A move to America would represent an entirely different challenge.

Rather than taking charge of an established rugby powerhouse, Gatland would be tasked with helping develop a nation attempting to establish itself on the global stage before welcoming the rugby world in 2031.

Should USA Rugby decide to make their move, they may have to put together one of the most lucrative coaching packages the sport has ever seen.

For now, Gatland remains a name under consideration rather than a done deal – but America's plans for 2031 could be about to get very serious indeed.