King leaves Wales coaching role before Six Nations

Rob Howley will take over the position of attack coach for the 2025 Six Nations, leaving Alex King out of Warren Gatland’s backroom team.

King, 50, was appointed by Wales head coach Warren Gatland in December 2022 after Stephen Jones departed.

When Wales reached the quarter-finals, King served in that capacity for two Six Nations campaigns and a 2023 World Cup.

Without giving an official reason, King will not participate in the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU)’s coaching team for this tournament because Howley, a former Wales attack coach, succeeded in replacing him.

Adam Jones, a scrum specialist, has been hired by Wales’ backroom staff on a loan from Harlequins, who has recently been updated to the coaching staff.

After serving a ban for betting violations, Howley made a technical return to the Wales setup in December 2023.

The 54-year-old played a significant role in the first golden Gatland era between 2008 and 2019, which included a fourth Six Nations title and three Grand Slam victories while serving as interim head coach for the 12-year spell. As a coach for the British and Irish Lions attacking teams, Howley also traveled three times.

Wales has a record 12-game losing streak that includes international matches and has not won a test match since the 2023 World Cup.