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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Matthew Southcombe

The emotional speech Warren Gatland just gave to Wales fans on the pitch as he said final goodbye

Former Wales head coach Warren Gatland has waved goodbye to the Principality Stadium for the final time.

Gatland, who in the past insisted he'd made his peace with his Wales departure, did well to keep his emotions in check as he addressed the 62,000 at the Principality Stadium.

Though the tears did appear to be gathering towards the end of the interview, which was broadcast to the entire stadium.

"I just want to say thank you so much, it's been brilliant for 12 years," he said in an interview with Channel 4 as he waved to the crowd.

"I've loved this place. You guys have given me so much. My time in Wales has been absolutely brilliant and there will be a really special place in my heart for Wales and the people here.

"Thank you, it's been incredibly special and you guys have been a massive part of it."

He added: "It's pretty special. I'll be back someday, maybe sitting in the stand.

"It's been pretty cool. It's brilliant to see Wales win today with their new regime but you guys (the fans) have been a special part of it.

"It's been brilliant to put some smiles on people's faces from time to time with a few Grand Slams.

"Thank you very much."

With that, he was gone.

The Kiwi was coaching the Barbarians against his old side and ended up on the wrong end of a 43-33 scoreline.

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