Paul Rowley exits St Helens day before Wigan Warriors clash as chairman makes statement

St Helens have confirmed the shock news that head coach Paul Rowley has left his role at the club with immediate effect.

Rowley signed a three-year deal at the end of last season to join the Red Vee after departing Salford Red Devils.

This season, he has guided Saints to 12 wins from 19 games in the league, whilst a 32-0 drubbing at the hands of Wigan Warriors saw them exit the Challenge Cup at the semi-final stage.

In that time, the club have been through a huge injury crisis, and they head into this week’s trip to Wigan without a dozen or so of their first-teamers.

With Rowley now departing, Eamon O’Carroll will assume leadership of the first team. The club have confirmed that a “thorough process” to identify a permanent successor will take place.

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Paul Rowley leaves St Helens

St Helens chairman, Eamonn McManus, said: “I would like to thank Paul for his commitment and extreme hard work as our Head Coach. He will always be warmly welcomed at the Club.

“The decision was an extremely difficult one for all concerned, and we fully recognise the extra challenges that Paul faced with us this particular season.

“We as a club must now look forward and do all within our powers to preserve our position as the most successful club in the history of Super League and to restore our position as a silverware contender going forward.”

Club Statement: Paul Rowley

St.Helens R.F.C. can confirm that Head Coach Paul Rowley has stepped down from his role at the Club with immediate effect.#COYS

— St.Helens R.F.C. (@Saints1890) July 23, 2026