Calum MacRae appointed as head coach at Benetton Rugby
03/27/2025 08:12 AM
CALUM MACRAE has been appointed head coach of Benetton Rugby on a three-year contract starting this summer. The 45-year-old will take over the reins from Marco Bortolami.
The former Melrose, Border Reivers, Edinburgh, Worcester Warriors and Venezia Mestre utility-back, who also represented various Scotland representative sides up to ‘A’ team level, has been with the Italian outfit since as defence coach since June 2022. He previously had spells coaching at Newcastle Falcons, Scotland 7s and Edinburgh.
“I am delighted to accept the position of head coach of Benetton Rugby from the 2025-26 season,” said MacRae. “When I joined the coaching team three years ago, I immediately saw the potential of the team and realised that it was an environment I wanted to be a part of. Since then, I believe we have made progress under the guidance of Marco and we can continue on this path with the right motivation and mentality.
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“I am proud of what we have achieved, we have shown the ability to compete at the top of the URC and in general of European rugby. Looking to the future, I believe that this team can do even more. I’m really excited about the path ahead.
“Also, personally, the city has a very special place for my family being the birthplace of our son, Rían. Since I arrived, we have soon felt welcomed by the club and the people of Treviso”.
Benetton currently sit 10th in the United Rugby Championship table, one point ahead of Edinburgh in 11th place. They will play Castres away in the quarter-final of the Champions Cup next Saturday.
“The choice of Calum MacRae as the new head coach was made with a view to continuity, a value that we believe is central to our growth path,” said Antonio Pavanello, General Manager of Benetton Rugby. “We believe it is essential that those who take on this role have a thorough understanding of the dynamics of our movement and are aligned with the culture and values of our club.
“Calum, in these three years, has been able to integrate perfectly, demonstrating a deep understanding of our identity. He has shown dedication, professionalism and a strong sense of belonging, elements that make the difference for us as much as technical skills.
“From a human point of view, he has proved to be a valuable person, capable of building solid relationships within the staff and with the players. Professionally, he has shown that he has the skills, vision and charisma to lead the team in this new phase.
“We are convinced that Calum has earned this opportunity day after day, with the work, commitment and results obtained. We are excited to be able to start this new chapter with him and certain that he will be able to play this role with responsibility and ambition”.
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