Michael Cheika made his millions in business away from rugby before taking charge of Leicester
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Michael Cheika isn't one to shy away from controversy—just ask anyone who's followed his coaching career. Since taking the reins at Leicester Tigers this summer, he's been shaking things up in the coaching world like a well-worn pair of jeans.
But before he became a rugby powerhouse, Cheika was raking in the dough in the fashion industry. He cut his teeth working for renowned designer Collette Dinnigan before launching his own distribution company, Live Fashion, which brought in millions.
The cherry on top? His firm secured the rights to a jeans brand that had been made iconic by none other than Victoria Beckham.
Cheika’s flair for business can be largely credited to his linguistic prowess—fluent in Arabic, French, and Italian, he effortlessly charmed international fashion buyers in Paris.
His former boss Dinnigan summed it up perfectly in a 2015 interview with the Sydney Morning Herald: “He didn't tolerate any bull****… yet he would very elegantly greet all our international fashion buyers.
Despite his entrepreneurial success, the call of rugby was too strong. After hanging up his boots, Cheika quickly transitioned to coaching, leading teams like Leinster, Stade Français, and the Australian national squad.
In 2020, he took on the role of assistant coach for Argentina, only to pivot to a director position with Japan's Green Rockets the following year. Cheika's return to the Pumas in March 2022 was nothing short of triumphant, as he guided the team to a stunning semi-final appearance at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Now, as head coach of Leicester Tigers for the 2024/25 Premiership season, all eyes are on Cheika. Will his fearless approach lead the Tigers to glory? Only time will tell!
Greatest coaches in rugby history [Ranked]
From revolutionaries who changed the game forever to modern masterminds who dominate the global stage, these coaches have left an indelible mark on rugby history.
10. Eddie Jones – Mastermind of Upsets
Eddie Jones has been a trailblazer in the rugby world, known for his strategic brilliance and ability to mastermind upsets. From leading Australia to the 2003 Rugby World Cup final, orchestrating Japan's shocking 2015 victory over South Africa, to steering England to the 2019 World Cup final, Jones has consistently proven his ability to adapt and innovate. Whether it’s quick thinking or tactical surprises, Jones keeps his teams one step ahead, earning his place in rugby folklore.
9. Warren Gatland – The Lions Legend
Warren Gatland's tenure with Wales and the British & Irish Lions cemented him as a legendary figure in coaching. Gatland guided Wales to four Six Nations titles, including three Grand Slams, and took the Lions to a series victory over Australia in 2013, followed by a draw against New Zealand in 2017. His no-nonsense approach, combined with his ability to build powerful teams, made him one of the sport's most reliable winners. Gatland's impact on the Lions, in particular, is unmatched.
8. Kitch Christie – The Undisputed Champion
Kitch Christie's time as Springbok coach was short but spectacular. He led South Africa to their first Rugby World Cup triumph in 1995, a victory that united a nation and will forever be remembered as a monumental moment in the sport’s history.
Christie never lost a match while coaching the Springboks, leaving behind an unbeaten legacy. His tactical nous, man-management skills, and ability to inspire players make him an unforgettable figure in rugby history.
7. Sir Ian McGeechan – The Lions' Heart and Soul
Sir Ian McGeechan is synonymous with the British & Irish Lions, having coached them on four tours, winning two series in 1989 and 1997.
His 1997 series win in South Africa is particularly iconic. McGeechan also masterminded Scotland's Grand Slam victory in 1990, one of the country's finest rugby moments. Known for his deep understanding of the Lions ethos and his ability to build team spirit, “Geech” has left an indelible mark on the sport.
6. Rod Macqueen – The Architect of Australian Dominance
Rod Macqueen's influence on Australian rugby was transformative. He led the Wallabies to World Cup glory in 1999 and followed it up with Tri-Nations success.
Macqueen was instrumental in crafting Australia's strategic, clinical game style, leading them to a series win over the British & Irish Lions in 2001. His ability to build a winning culture and his tactical genius shaped one of Australia's most successful eras in rugby history.
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