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Crystal Kaua has left her role Brazil The women’s head coach weeks after the union decided not to renew the New Zealander’s contract.
Former Chiefs head coach Manave joined Brazil in 2024 and oversaw the team’s ninth-place finish at the HSBC SVNS World Cup in 2026. She was the first woman to coach the team.
Her tenure also included a dramatic win at the HSBC SVNS 2 in Sao Paulo earlier in 2026. The victory clinched Brazil’s spot at the SVNS World Championship, where they narrowly missed out on qualifying for the HSBC SVNS Series.
Kaua said: “We came to Brazil with a very clear goal – to take the Yaras to the Olympic Games in Los Angeles. I would have loved the opportunity to continue and finish that journey, but unfortunately, my contract could not be renewed. I am incredibly proud of what we have built together. We finished ninth in the world, while two consecutive teams will always bring something new. proud of.
“We know this team has a lot more to show, and we felt we were getting closer and closer to reaching our full potential. The athletes and staff have worked extremely hard for this, and I believe we leave the Yaras in a great position to continue to grow and achieve great things.”
Ahead of this month’s Sudamérica Rugby Sevens, former Brazil international Iga da Ros has been named head coach of the Brazil Women’s Sevens, replacing Kaua.
Da Ros, Brazil’s record holder in men’s XVs, has spent the past four seasons in the *Yaras* program in both XVs and seven as an assistant coach.
Alexandre Chiofetti, CEO of the Brazilian Rugby Confederation, said: “Crystal was the first woman to lead Yaras, which was an important milestone in the development of Brazilian women’s rugby. We are extremely grateful for all the work she has done, showing that there are no obstacles for our national team. Crystal has delivered a world-class work transfer and a top level of competition.
“On the field, we experienced historic moments. We beat Australia, won the title at home, developed new athletes, and the talent that exists in our country was shown to the world. Crystal’s work also helped Brazilian players get the opportunity to compete in major leagues around the world. We can only thank her for everything she has done.”
