Shaun Wane has stepped down from his role as England head coach nine months out from the World Cup and he’s spoken on the decision, labelling his time in charge of England as the “honour of my life”.
Wane was appointed in February 2020 and now leaves after almost six years in charge, however, he departs with the Rugby League World Cup on the horizon, a competition that he had been contracted to lead England into.
After a 3-0 Ashes loss to Australia, the heat was on Wane from fans and those in the media with the RFL subsequently confirming that a review would take place.
Speaking in November, Nigel Wood told the BBC: “We will review that in the fullness of time when the reports are received like we do at the end of every international series.”
Wood also explained the decision would be made within two to three months and that time frame has been met with Wane stepping aside 67 days after England’s final Ashes Test, his 19th and final match.
Shaun Wane calls time on England coaching career
On that decision, Wane revealed that it was one he had made following “careful reflection”, noting that it was the right time to move on ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
He 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.”
In a parting message, Wane added: “I wish everyone involved with England Rugby League the best going forward and for the World Cup later this year.”
The series wins over Tonga and Samoa were highlights of his reign but the semi-final defeat against Samoa, a side that England had beaten 60-0 just weeks earlier, was a major failure.
Leaving with a record of 14 wins from 19, Wane steps aside with the RFL now having nine months to recruit a replacement ahead of the World Cup with that new head coach’s first game set to be against Tonga in Perth on October 17th.
Check out the latest episode of The Serious About Rugby League Show on our YouTube channel here.
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.https://t.co/I6EDlyY49e pic.twitter.com/ha1rgWGInI
— England Rugby League (@England_RL) January 14, 2026
