Michael Cheika Hints at Rugby League Return After Emotional World Cup Farewell

Michael Cheika has refused to rule out a return to rugby league coaching in the future, despite preparing to begin a new chapter in rugby union with the NSW Waratahs.

The experienced coach has spent the 2026 Rugby League World Cup in charge of Lebanon, bringing an end to another memorable period in the 13-man code.

However, following Lebanon's dramatic victory over France, Cheika made it clear that his relationship with rugby league is far from over.

"I'll be back at some stage," Cheika said.

Lebanon finished their World Cup campaign with a dramatic 24–20 golden-point victory over France on Sunday.

The match provided an emotional conclusion to Cheika's time with the Cedars, with Abbas Miski producing a memorable moment by scoring the winning try in extra time.

It was a fitting end to a tournament that had presented plenty of challenges for Lebanon.

Although the Cedars were unable to progress to the semi-finals, their final performance provided something for the players and supporters to celebrate.

Cheika was understandably emotional following the victory, admitting that the experience had meant a great deal to him.

"I've had such a great experience," he said when discussing his time in rugby league.

Cheika is now preparing for his next coaching challenge after being appointed head coach of the NSW Waratahs for the 2027 season.

The appointment represents a return to familiar territory for the former Wallabies coach, who previously guided the Waratahs to their maiden Super Rugby championship in 2014.

He subsequently coached Australia between 2014 and 2019 before taking charge of Argentina, leading the Pumas to the semi-finals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

His recent experience with the Sydney Roosters and Lebanon has also provided an opportunity to reconnect with rugby league.

Cheika believes the experience has helped prepare him for his return to a head coaching position.

"It's helped me get my head-coach legs back," he explained.

While Cheika has made it clear that he would welcome another opportunity in rugby league, he does not expect to return to coaching Lebanon.

He admitted that he would be unlikely to take charge of the Cedars again, describing his time with the group as particularly special.

His previous involvement with the Sydney Roosters has also demonstrated his interest in the NRL, having worked under Trent Robinson.

Whether that eventually leads to another opportunity in club rugby league remains to be seen.

For now, Cheika's immediate focus will be on preparing the Waratahs for the 2027 Super Rugby season.

However, his latest comments will certainly keep the door open to another chapter in rugby league.

At 59, Cheika has already experienced success across both codes, and his willingness to return to rugby league could make him an interesting figure to watch in the coming years.