Shaun Wane has resigned as head coach of England’s rugby league national team with immediate effect, the Rugby Football League (RFL) announced on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
Wane, who took charge in February 2020 after a successful spell with Wigan Warriors, oversaw 19 matches, winning 14 for a 73% success rate. His tenure included guiding England to the 2022 home Rugby League World Cup semi-finals (a loss to Samoa), series victories over Tonga in 2023 and Samoa in 2024, but ended on a sour note with a 3-0 Ashes whitewash by Australia in November 2025.
In a statement released by the RFL, Wane described the role as “the honour of my life” but said: “After careful reflection I believe the time is right to step aside and allow the programme to move forward into its next chapter.” He wished the team success at the upcoming World Cup.
The decision leaves England searching for a replacement – expected to be a part-time appointment – with just nine months until the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, co-hosted by Australia, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand in October-November.
England’s group fixtures include an opener against Tonga in Perth on October 17, followed by matches against France and Papua New Guinea.
The RFL has begun the hunt for Wane’s successor as the team prepares for the global tournament.