In a stunning mid-season move, the Brisbane Broncos have officially parted ways with head coach Michael Maguire following weeks of internal pressure and inconsistent on-field results. Club legend Darren Lockyer has been appointed interim head coach for the remainder of the 2025 NRL season.
The decision comes after the Broncos’ fourth consecutive loss, which saw the team drop out of the top eight, prompting urgent meetings among the club’s executive leadership late Wednesday night.
> “We thank Michael for his commitment and professionalism during his time with the club,” said Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy. “This was not an easy decision, but one we feel is necessary to realign our performance with our long-term goals.”
Lockyer, who has been serving as a Broncos board member and strategic advisor, will take over coaching duties effective immediately. This marks his first foray into a head coaching role, though he remains one of the game’s most respected minds.
> “I never expected to be in this position,” Lockyer said at a brief press conference this morning. “But I’m ready to do what’s needed for this club. We’ve got a talented group, and I believe we can still turn this season around.”
The Broncos are expected to begin a full-scale coaching search at the end of the season, with names like Jason Ryles, Justin Holbrook, and Kristian Woolf already being linked to the role.
Maguire’s exit ends a tumultuous tenure that began in late 2024, amid high hopes but limited results. His overall record with the Broncos stands at 6 wins and 11 losses.
