Brisbane have sacked coach Kevin Walters, just 12 months after leading the Broncos to a grand final.
Walters was given a one-year contract extension until the end of 2026 in March, but six months later, he has been let go immediately.
The Broncos finished a disappointing 12th this season and underwent a full-scale review, which resulted in the decision to end Walters’ time at the club.
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Chairman Karl Morris revealed the decision to News Corp.
“We feel deeply for Kev,” he said.
“He will always be a respected guy and a legend of the Broncos and he will always be treated that way.
“Of course I am shocked. This is a huge job and a pressure job at the Broncos.
“We have great appreciation for Kevvie’s efforts and wish him well.”
The club later confirmed the move, but said Walters was stepping down.
“Aside from playing here, it’s been the greatest thrill and honour of my life to have coached the Broncos,” Walters said.
“Coaching in the NRL takes a toll, not just on the coach but also their family – it’s time for me to step away and spend some quality time with my loved ones, who have supported me all the way over the last four years.
“I’m grateful to the club for providing me with the opportunity to be head coach and we have come a long way from the wooden spoon to last year’s run to the grand final.
“I wish the team and the club all the best.”
Among the pre-season favourites after going within minutes of lifting last year’s premiership, the Broncos suffered a mid-season capitulation in 2024.
The form slump came amid a slew of injuries, while questions were asked over fullback Reece Walsh’s form.
Walters coached 99 games at the Broncos, making him the third-longest serving coach of the club.
He also enjoyed a stellar playing career at the club, including a stint as captain, as well as five premierships from 241 games.
Brisbane have Trent Barrett on their coaching staff for next season, with the club to immediately begin a search for their next mentor.
Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy paid tribute to Walters.
“We owe a debt of gratitude to Kevin, for the enormous role he’s played as head coach over the past four years,” he said.
“Kevin put his heart and soul into the club during his time as coach. He is one of the most passionate people you will ever meet when it comes to the Broncos and that helped lift us out of a really difficult time.
“While we will miss Kev and his infectious personality on a daily basis, we certainly don’t want one of the Broncos favourite sons not to stay involved with our great club.”
– With AAP