Ian Foster is a New Zealand professional rugby union coach and former player who has been coaching the New Zealand national team, the All Blacks, since 2019.
He has coached New Zealand to the final of the Rugby World Cup 2023, where they are due to play South Africa.
Here you can follow Ian Foster’s net worth, salary, career earnings, stats, wife, and more.
About Ian Foster
Ian Douglas Foster was born on May 1, 1965, in Putāruru, New Zealand. He attended The Taieri High School and Forest View High School.
Playing Career
During Foster’s playing career, he made 148 appearances for Waikato, a union record, and played 28 games for the Chiefs. He also played for the NZRFU President’s XV in 1995.
Coaching Career
Foster started his coaching career with Waikato and later became the head coach of the Waikato-based Super Rugby team, the Chiefs. In 2011, he became an assistant coach and selector for the All Blacks under newly-appointed head coach Steve Hansen.
During his time as assistant coach, the All Blacks won 93 of 108 tests (losing in just ten) and won the 2015 Rugby World Cup. In December 2019, Foster was named the new head coach of the All Blacks, replacing Hansen.
Foster has coached the All Blacks in 45 matches, with a win rate of 71.11%.
Under his leadership, the All Blacks have won four Bledisloe Cups, four Freedom Cups, three Rugby Championship crowns, and a Tri-Nations title.
Ian Foster’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Ian Foster’s net worth is estimated to be between $100,000 to $1 million. New Zealand All Blacks Ian Foster’s prime sources of earnings are his All Blacks salaries, club salaries, brand endorsements, and sponsorship deals.
Salary and Career Earnings
Ian Foster’s salary as the head coach of the All Blacks is estimated to be around £400,000 per year.
| Year | Estimated Annual Salary |
| 2023 | £400,000 |
| 2022 | £400,000 |
Personal Details
| Full Name | Ian Douglas Foster |
| Date of Birth | May 1, 1965 |
| Place of Birth | Putāruru, New Zealand |
| Height | 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in) |
| Weight | N/A |
| Nationality | New Zealand |
| Current Net Worth | $100,000 – $1 million |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Wife | Leigh Foster |
| Instagram Profile | N/A |
Wife
Ian Foster is married to Leigh Foster, and they have three adult children: Mark, Michaela, and Jaime.
FAQs
Who is Ian Foster?
Ian Foster is a New Zealand rugby coach and former player. He was born on May 1, 1965, in Putaruru, New Zealand. He is best known for being the head coach of the All Blacks, New Zealand’s national rugby team.
What position did Ian Foster play during his rugby career?
Ian Foster played as a flyhalf (first five-eighth). He was a celebrated player for Waikato, where he became the most-capped player with 148 games. He also played 26 games for the Chiefs in Super Rugby.
When did Ian Foster start his coaching career?
Foster began his coaching career shortly after retiring as a player. He started as the Chiefs’ Technical Advisor and then became their head coach from 2004 to 2011. He later joined the All Blacks as an assistant coach in 2012.
What are some of Ian Foster’s coaching achievements?
As part of the All Blacks coaching team, Foster has been involved in many triumphs, including the unbeaten 2013 season, the victorious 2015 Rugby World Cup campaign, and a record-breaking consecutive wins streak in 2016. He became the head coach of the All Blacks in 2019.
What is Ian Foster’s win record as the All Blacks head coach?
Ian Foster’s win record as the All Blacks head coach is around 70%, the lowest of any All Blacks coach in the professional era. He has led the team to several significant victories and titles despite this.
Has Ian Foster faced any controversies during his coaching career?
Yes, Foster has faced several controversies, including criticism for the All Blacks’ performance dips and historic losses, such as the first-ever defeat to Argentina and a home series loss to Ireland. His tenure has been marked by both high praise and significant scrutiny.
What are some of the challenges Ian Foster has faced as a coach?
Foster has dealt with the pressure of maintaining the All Blacks’ high standards, managing team performance during the transition, and handling public and media criticism. He has also navigated the team through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is Ian Foster’s coaching style?
Foster is known for his open management style and tactical nous. He emphasizes team culture, unity, and using technology and data analysis to improve performance. His approach aims to get the best out of his players on and off the field.
What is Ian Foster’s next career move?
After the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Foster announced he would step down as the All Blacks head coach. He has since signed a deal to coach in Japan, linking up with a familiar face in the Japanese rugby scene.
What is Ian Foster’s legacy in rugby?
Ian Foster’s legacy includes significant achievements and notable challenges. He has participated in multiple World Cup-winning campaigns and contributed to the All Blacks’ continued success. Despite criticism, his impact on New Zealand rugby and his innovative coaching methods are widely recognized.
