Former Argentina fly-half Felipe Contepomi has taken an unexpected path to becoming the Pumas' head coach, earning praise from former mentors Michael Cheika and Joe Schmidt for his dedication to coaching craft.
From player to coach
Contepomi played under Cheika at Leinster for four seasons, helping the province win its first Heineken Cup in 2009. Cheika initially doubted Contepomi's coaching potential, saying top players often struggle to teach what came naturally to them. However, after Contepomi spent four years as Leinster's attack coach, Cheika brought him into the Argentina setup as assistant in 2022.
Cheika's change of heart
Cheika now describes Contepomi as "different," noting he stepped back to self-reflect and learned his craft properly at Leinster. "He understood what he had to do to become a quality coach first up and then a head coach," Cheika said. Contepomi succeeded Cheika after the 2023 World Cup and has since led Argentina to wins over New Zealand, South Africa, and the British and Irish Lions.
Schmidt's perspective
Joe Schmidt, who coached Leinster between Contepomi's playing and coaching stints, calls him a "student of coaching" who blends playing experience with study. Schmidt faced Contepomi's Argentina twice in the Rugby Championship, each winning two matches, including Argentina's 67–27 victory in 2024.
Medical background and intellect
Contepomi earned a Bachelor of Medicine degree from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in 2007, earning the nickname "Dr Phil" among Leinster fans. Former Ireland international Luke Fitzgerald highlights his intellect and creativity as key assets.
Future and current challenges
Contepomi has ruled himself out of succeeding Leo Cullen at Leinster after his Argentina contract ends following the 2027 World Cup. The role will go to Noel McNamara. Cheika believes Contepomi is doing an underrated job with a team ranked eighth in the world, performing "well above their weight" despite limited resources compared to other top nations.
Argentina face Ireland in Dublin on Friday in the Nations Championship, offering Contepomi another chance for a statement win.
