In a surprising turn of events, Vern Cotter has stepped down as the head coach of the Fiji national rugby union team, just eight months before the Rugby World Cup in France.
The announcement was made during a hastily arranged press conference in Suva, where Fiji Rugby Union chairman Humphrey Tawake confirmed that Cotter’s resignation was accepted for personal reasons, although no further details were provided regarding the circumstances surrounding his departure [[1]](https://apnews.com/article/sports-eddie-jones-fiji-new-zealand-22ca32768ef7725cdd9e1063be69b11c)[[3]](https://www.rugbypass.com/news/fiji-rugby-coach-vern-cotter-delivers-world-cup-blow/).
### Key Points:
– **Immediate Resignation**: Cotter’s resignation is effective immediately, raising questions about the team’s preparation for the upcoming World Cup [[2]](https://www.fbcnews.com.fj/sports/rugby/cotter-resigns/).
– **Tenure**: Cotter had been at the helm since January 2020 and had been credited with significant improvements in the team’s performance and culture during his tenure [[3]](https://www.rugbypass.com/news/fiji-rugby-coach-vern-cotter-delivers-world-cup-blow/).
– **Future Plans**: The Fiji Rugby Union is now in the process of searching for a new head coach, with hopes to appoint someone as soon as possible. They are considering both advertising the position and appointing an interim coach [[2]](https://www.fbcnews.com.fj/sports/rugby/cotter-resigns/).
### Cotter’s Reflection
In his statement, Cotter expressed disappointment over his sudden departure, thanking the players and coaching staff for their efforts and highlighting the positive changes made within the team [[3]](https://www.rugbypass.com/news/fiji-rugby-coach-vern-cotter-delivers-world-cup-blow/).
This unexpected change comes at a critical time for Fiji rugby, as the team gears up for one of the most significant tournaments in the sport.
Learn more:
1. [Vern Cotter steps down as Fiji rugby coach | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/sports-eddie-jones-fiji-new-zealand-22ca32768ef7725cdd9e1063be69b11c)
2. [Cotter resigns – FBC News](https://www.fbcnews.com.fj/sports/rugby/cotter-resigns/)
3. [‘I’m disappointed’: Fiji coach Vern Cotter delivers World Cup blow](https://www.rugbypass.com/news/fiji-rugby-coach-vern-cotter-delivers-world-cup-blow/)
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