Brian McDermott, who previously guided the Leeds Rhinos to multiple championships, has been confirmed as the new head coach of the England national rugby league team. His appointment comes as the country prepares for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, which will be staged in Australia later this season. The former Rhinos boss will take over the senior side from Shaun Wane, who resigned in January after England suffered a 3‑0 defeat in the Ashes series. McDermott, who is currently serving as an assistant coach with the Gold Coast Titans in the NRL, said he feels a deep sense of pride in accepting the role.
"I am incredibly proud to take on the role of England head coach ahead of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup," McDermott said in a press conference. "My focus now is on creating an environment where players can perform with confidence, wear the shirt with pride, and give themselves the best chance of going deep into the tournament." He added that his hands‑on approach and attention to detail would be central to his strategy.
"I have always been close to the detail, and that will be important in this role. My job now is to get the standards right, build belief in the group, and make sure we're ready when it matters," he explained. The selection panel that chose McDermott comprised former England captain Kevin Sinfield, newly appointed Rugby Football League (RFL) non‑executive director Sara Symington, interim RFL chief executive Abi Ekoku and RFL chair Nigel Wood.
Marc Lovering, the RFL executive director of performance and participation, also provided support during the process. In a statement released by the RFL, the governing body indicated that McDermott will announce his coaching staff "in due course". Several high‑profile candidates were also considered for the job, including former England captain Sam Burgess, experienced coach Steve McNamara, Brad Arthur and Paul Rowley.
Wood praised McDermott’s credentials, saying he "emerged from an outstanding field of candidates". "The selection process was comprehensive and thorough, and the RFL is indebted to all who assisted," Wood continued. "As the most successful coach in Super League history, Brian has demonstrated his capability to build fine teams. His previous experience as an international coach also shows his understanding of the unique challenges of bringing together players from different clubs in an international setting." Wood also highlighted McDermott’s current involvement in the NRL, noting that it gives him daily insight into many of the opponents England will face at the World Cup.
"His network across the Betfred Super League clubs will ensure the England squad has the best possible chance of success," Wood added. McDermott’s résumé makes him a logical choice for the role. During his tenure at Leeds Rhinos from 2011 to 2018, he guided the club to four Grand Final victories, including the celebrated "golden generation" treble in 2015 – a season that saw the Rhinos claim the Super League title, the Challenge Cup and the World Club Challenge, with stars such as Kevin Sinfield, Rob Burrow and Danny McGuire playing pivotal roles.
After leaving Leeds, McDermott took the helm of the Toronto Wolfpack, leading the Canadian‑based side to promotion to the Super League in 2019. He then had a brief spell as head coach of Featherstone Rovers before moving to Australia, where he joined the NRL as an assistant. He first worked with the Newcastle Knights and later with the Gold Coast Titans, where he has been instrumental in developing the squad’s defensive structures and attacking patterns. The appointment arrives at a crucial time for English rugby league.
The national team’s recent Ashes loss exposed gaps in preparation and consistency, and the RFL is eager to restore confidence ahead of the World Cup. McDermott’s experience in both the Super League and the NRL is expected to bring a blend of tactical acumen and player management skills that could bridge the gap between domestic success and international competitiveness. Fans can look forward to a full slate of televised matches this season, as Sky Sports has confirmed it will broadcast every Super League game live, including two exclusive matches each round and additional coverage of the remaining fixtures. The broadcaster also promised extensive analysis and punditry, featuring programmes such as the "Bench" podcast with Jenna and Jon, to keep supporters engaged throughout the campaign.
While the exact composition of McDermott’s coaching team remains to be announced, the RFL has indicated that the selection will be made with careful consideration of the expertise required to compete at the highest level. The new head coach is expected to work closely with club coaches across the Betfred Super League to monitor player form, fitness and readiness, ensuring that England fields its strongest possible lineup at the World Cup. In summary, Brian McDermott’s appointment signals a renewed ambition for England rugby league.
His proven track record of winning titles, his familiarity with both British and Australian playing styles, and his reputation for meticulous preparation position him well to guide the Three Lions toward a deeper run in the 2026 World Cup. The upcoming months will be crucial as he builds a cohesive unit, instils a winning mindset, and prepares the squad to face the world’s elite on Australian soil.