Joe Schmidt has ruled himself out of the running for the All Blacks coaching job after the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The current assistant coach and selector confirmed he won't be putting his name forward to replace the departing Ian Foster.
"I have really enjoyed being back on the grass coaching with the Blues and the All Blacks," Schmidt said in a statement.
"I very much appreciate those opportunities, but presented with a condensed time frame this year, I won't be applying for any coaching roles that extend beyond the Rugby World Cup.
"In the shorter term, I will work hard to support the All Blacks in 2023."
Schmidt recently emerged as an outside candidate for the gig, with Scott Robertson and Jamie Joseph considered the frontrunners.
The former Ireland coach returned to New Zealand in 2021, before joining Leon MacDonald's coaching staff at the Blues for the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific season.
His influence was evident, as the Blues reached their first final since 2003, before taking up the position as a selector for the All Blacks.
But it didn't take long for Schmidt to assume the role of assistant coach, with his work on attack credited as being vital in New Zealand's Rugby Championship triumph.
His success saw pundits and players lauding his influence, and suggesting he could be a late contender to replace Foster.
Foster confirmed he won't be re-applying for the position once his contract expires after the World Cup, with Robertson favourited to replace him.
However, All Blacks and Blues star Rieko Ioane vouched for Schmidt's promotion as a potential bolter for the role.
"Schmidty's a top bloke and I've got nothing but praise for the man. He's more than capable," he said.
