In a jaw-dropping announcement that has left the football world reeling, Collingwood Football Club’s head coach, Craig McRae, revealed in a heartfelt statement that he will not be returning to coach the Magpies in 2026. The news, delivered just minutes ago, has sent shockwaves through the Collingwood fanbase, the club, and the Australian Football League (AFL) community at large.
McRae, who took over as head coach in 2021 and led the club to extraordinary success, including the 2023 AFL Grand Final, cited personal reasons and the need for a new challenge as the driving factors behind his decision. “I want to be honest with the fans, the players, and the club,” McRae said in his statement. “After much reflection, I’ve decided that I won’t be returning for the 2026 season. I believe it’s time for both myself and the club to look in new directions, and this decision, though difficult, is what feels right for me at this stage of my life.”
His tenure at Collingwood has been nothing short of remarkable. Under McRae’s leadership, the club saw a massive turnaround, with the team playing some of the most exciting and dynamic football in years. The Magpies’ resurgence, culminating in a nail-biting Grand Final appearance in 2023, solidified McRae as one of the most highly regarded coaches in the AFL.
However, the timing of his announcement has raised numerous questions. The club had been poised for another strong year, and many believed McRae’s innovative strategies and leadership style would continue to propel Collingwood forward. The 2025 season is still ongoing, and McRae’s decision leaves both the team and fans in a state of uncertainty.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together, but coaching takes a toll. I need to refocus on myself and my family, and for now, stepping away from this role is what’s best for me,” McRae explained. “I’ll always be a Magpie at heart, and I’ll continue to support the team in any way I can.”
The shock announcement has left the football world in disbelief, with many questioning the timing of such a pivotal decision. “It’s a massive blow for the club, especially given the momentum we’ve had over the past few seasons,” said AFL commentator and former player, Peter Schwab. “McRae’s leadership style has been transformative for Collingwood, and this is a huge loss for the AFL community.”
Supporters of the Magpies have expressed mixed emotions, with some voicing their gratitude for McRae’s contributions and others feeling devastated by his departure. “I can’t believe he’s leaving now. He was the one who brought us back into contention,” one fan wrote on social media. “We’re going to miss him so much.”
Collingwood Football Club’s president, Mark Anderson, responded to the announcement with understanding and appreciation for McRae’s decision. “We respect Craig’s decision and are incredibly grateful for his dedication to the club. He has done an exceptional job as our head coach, and his legacy at Collingwood will never be forgotten.”
As for McRae’s future, the coach has hinted at exploring new opportunities within the football world, though he remains tight-lipped about his next career move. “There are plenty of opportunities out there, and I’m excited to see what comes next,” he said.
With McRae’s departure, Collingwood will now begin the search for a new head coach to continue the journey he started. The task of finding a successor who can build on McRae’s success will be no easy feat, but the club is confident that the strong foundation McRae has laid will allow them to remain a force in the AFL.
As fans and players alike come to terms with this unexpected news, one thing is clear: Craig McRae’s legacy at Collingwood will be remembered for years to come. The Magpies will now have to adjust to a new chapter, but McRae’s influence will undoubtedly remain an integral part of their story.
