The RFL can confirm that England Rugby League head coach Shaun Wane will step aside with immediate effect following a six-year period in charge.
Wane, who has led England since February 2020, has taken time to reflect on the programme and believes the timing is right for new leadership to guide the team into the next phase, including the upcoming World Cup.
During his tenure, Wane oversaw memorable series victories over Tonga in 2023 and a star-studded Samoa a year later, as well as a semi-final in the World Cup. He finishes with 14 wins from 19 matches.
The former Wigan Warriors coach is part of a very small elite number of coaches to have won the full suite of domestic club honours and achieved World Club Championship success. He is one of a select few to have achieved this as both a player and as a head coach, reflecting a rare depth of experience and longevity within professional rugby league.
RFL interim chief executive Abi Ekoku paid tribute to Wane for his service over the last six years and said: “The RFL would like to thank Shaun for his leadership and unstinting dedication to making the England Rugby League team the very best it could be over the last six years.
“Shaun has not only led England with pride, passion and a considerable level of insight; his diligence has set new standards and driven the expectations of a new generation of international stars.
“We wish Shaun the very best for the future and the RFL will undoubtedly call upon his vast knowledge and experience moving forward.”
Shaun Wane said: “It has been the honour of my life to coach England Rugby League over the last six years but after careful reflection I believe the time is right to step aside and allow the programme to move forward into its next chapter.
“The privilege of leading my country in a World Cup, an Ashes Series on home soil and securing victories over Tonga and Samoa will live long in the memory. I’m incredibly grateful to all the players, coaches and staff I’ve worked alongside during that time, their commitment and professionalism made those moments possible.
“I wish everyone involved with England Rugby League the best going forward and for the World Cup later this year."
The process will now start to seek and appoint a new head coach ahead of the tournament which starts against Tonga in Perth on October 17. England face France a week later before heading to Wollongong in New South Wales to complete their group stage versus Papua New Guinea on October 30.
Wane had operated on a full-time basis with the governing body, but the role is expected to revert to a part-time position, with the RFL setting out the criteria for a new appointment in due course.
