Michael Maguire, the former Wigan Warriors coach, steps down from his Origin role to become the head coach in the NRL.
Michael Maguire has stepped down from his position with New South Wales to become the new head coach of the Brisbane Broncos in the NRL. The 50-year-old former Wigan Warriors coach, who previously led Wigan to a Super League title (2010) and a Challenge Cup (2011), as well as the South Sydney Rabbitohs to an NRL Premiership (2014), has signed a three-year contract with the Broncos.
With over 300 games of experience as a head coach in both the NRL and Super League, having worked with Wigan, South Sydney, and Wests Tigers, Maguire also coached the New Zealand national team from 2018 to 2023. During his tenure, he led the Kiwis to a Rugby League World Cup appearance in 2022 and won the Pacific Cup in 2023, defeating Australia 30-0 in the final.
Maguire’s most recent achievement with New South Wales was guiding them to an Origin series win earlier in 2024. However, he has now moved on from that role to take over from Kevin Walters as the Broncos’ head coach.
Maguire expressed excitement about joining the Broncos, emphasizing the club’s storied history and high expectations. “It’s an honor to step into the role of head coach,” he said. “We want the members to turn up and be proud of the way we play, proud of their team.”
Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy is confident that Maguire is the right fit for the job, noting his extensive experience and success at various levels. He also mentioned that Maguire would start immediately, with pre-season training for 2025 set to begin in November.
Before the Broncos’ announcement, New South Wales confirmed Maguire’s departure in a statement. The New South Wales Rugby League (NSWRL) Board agreed to release Maguire from his contract and expressed gratitude for his successful tenure, which culminated in the 2024 State of Origin series victory. The NSWRL will now begin a recruitment process to appoint a new coach.