Scott Robertson will remain at the Crusaders until the end of the 2024 season, after recommitting to NZ Rugby.
The much-loved coach was thought to be highly sought after by overseas clubs and international sides, but his love for the red-and-blacks was the ultimate deciding factor.
"I love this team and I’m proud of what we’ve been able to achieve, on and off the field, over the past five seasons for the people of the Crusaders region," Robertson says.
"The opportunity to continue to lead a world-class coaching group in a club where everyone is really connected - from the board, through to staff and the team on the field - is truly special.
"The Crusaders have helped me grow so much as a coach and a person, and I value the relationship I have with our playing group, they challenge me every day.
"The best is yet to come from this team, so I’m excited to confirm my coaching future in New Zealand.
"I also want to thank my family for their support. I wouldn't be able to do what I do without them, and I'm fortunate that they share my passion for this club and our Crusaders family."
The carrot of a potential role with the All Blacks could also be on the horizon for Robertson, with Ian Foster's contract set to expire at the end of the season.
While NZR is unlikely to part ways with Foster, having Robertson as an obvious replacement - either next season or post the 2023 Rugby World Cup - was a no-brainer.
"We are fortunate to have the quality of coaches we do in New Zealand, and Scott is someone who has added - and will continue to add - an enormous amount to the players and teams he’s involved with," says NZR chief executive Mark Robinson.
"His record has been exceptional at every level he has coached, including with the NZ U20s, and we are thrilled he will continue to play a major role in developing our players, on and off the field, for the next three seasons.
"It’s testament to Razor’s commitment and passion for New Zealand rugby and the Crusaders that he has decided to continue his career on home soil, and we look forward to his continued contribution."
Under Robertson's leadership, the Crusaders won three consecutive Super Rugby titles from 2017-2019, and back-to-back Sky Super Rugby Aotearoa titles in 2020 and 2021.
Robertson has a record of 71 wins, four draws and nine losses in four seasons with the red-and-blacks, and in guiding the team to the 2017 title in Johannesburg, he became the first person to win a Super Rugby trophy as both a player and a coach.
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