Former Royal Marine Brian McDermott appointed England head coach for 2026 Rugby League World Cup
Former Royal Marine Commando Brian McDermott has been appointed as the new head coach of the men's England Rugby Football League, replacing Shaun Wane who stepped aside in January.
The four-time Super League Grand Final-winning coach will lead the England squad into the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, which is set to take place in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea later this year.
McDermott is the most successful coach in Super League history, winning eight major trophies with Leeds Rhinos.
He served as a Royal Marine for five years before becoming a professional player, where he represented both England and Great Britain in a decorated playing career.
Speaking about his appointment, he said: "I'm incredibly proud to take on the role of England Head Coach ahead of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
"My focus now is on creating an environment where players can perform with confidence, represent the shirt with pride, and give themselves the best chance of going deep into the tournament.
"I've always been hands-on and 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."
McDermott coached the USA in the 2017 World Cup and has worked as an assistant coach at Newcastle Knights for the last three years before joining NRL rivals Gold Coast ahead of this season.
RFL Chair Nigel Wood said: "We are delighted that Brian has accepted the role of England Head Coach, emerging from an outstanding field of candidates.
"As the most successful coach in Super League history, Brian has demonstrated his capability to build fine teams and his previous experience as an international coach also demonstrates his knowledge of the unique challenges of harnessing players from different clubs in an international setting.
"I am sure the whole sport will wish Brian every success in the role."
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