Brisbane Broncos Coach Michael Maguire Agrees to Depart Before Contract Expires
BRISBANE, Australia – In a stunning development for rugby league’s premier club, Brisbane Broncos head coach Michael Maguire has agreed to leave his position before the expiration of his contract, with the decision confirmed by club officials today. The move comes just five months after Maguire delivered the Broncos their first premiership in 19 years, ending one of the longest title droughts in NRL history.
Maguire joined the Broncos ahead of the 2025 season and achieved immediate, historic success, guiding the team to a 26–22 Grand Final victory over the Melbourne Storm at Accor Stadium. Under his leadership, Brisbane recorded 18 wins across the regular season and finals campaign, including a seven-game unbeaten streak that propelled them to the top of the ladder. His achievements were recognized with the 2025 Queensland Sport Coach of the Year award, cementing his status as one of the state’s most respected sporting figures.
A club statement released this morning confirmed the mutual decision to part ways, with both parties declining to disclose specific reasons for the departure but emphasizing the move was made in the best interests of the organization. “Michael Maguire will always hold a special place in Broncos history for ending our premiership drought and restoring pride to our club,” Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy said. “We have reached an agreement for him to leave his role before his contract concludes, and we thank him for his dedication, hard work and the legacy he has built here at Red Hill.”
In his own statement, Maguire expressed gratitude for his time with the club and pride in what the team accomplished. “Leading the Broncos to a premiership in my first season was a privilege I will never forget,” he said. “This club means so much to the people of Queensland, and I am proud to have played a part in bringing joy to our fans after nearly two decades of waiting. While this decision was not made lightly, I believe it is the right path forward for both myself and the team as we look to the future.”
The announcement follows the Broncos’ challenging 0-2 start to the 2026 season, with the reigning premiers conceding a record 66 points across opening losses to Penrith and Parramatta. However, club sources have indicated the decision was unrelated to on-field results, with discussions between Maguire and the board having been ongoing for several weeks.
The Broncos have begun the process of identifying a replacement head coach, with assistant coach John Cartwright appointed as interim leader for this weekend’s clash against the Gold Coast Titans. The club has stated a permanent appointment will be made before the end of the regular season.
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