Willie Peters will end his historic tenure as Hull KR head coach at the end of the Super League season.
The 47-year-old leaves Craven Park in 2023 having led a period of success that few could have imagined when he was appointed head coach.
Peters helped end the club’s 40-year trophy drought with victory in the 2025 Challenge Cup final, winning the League Leaders’ Shield and Super League Grand Final as Hull KR finished the season as Triple Crown winners.
A resounding 30-24 victory over the Brisbane Broncos in February brought further success, and the Robins’ rise to the pinnacle of the sport as they won their first World Club Challenge.
Peters confirmed in a statement that he will pursue coaching opportunities in the NRL after winding down the Hull KR branch.
“I’ve made no secret of my desire to become a coach in the NRL as the next step in my career, but that doesn’t make this decision any harder,” Peters said.
“I would like to thank all the board, players and staff at Sewell Group Craven Park for their support and dedication over four wonderful years as I grew as a coach and as a person.
“I would also like to thank our amazing fans around the world who have welcomed me and my family since our arrival. Hull KR and the East Hull community will forever be in our hearts.”
“The job is not done and I am fully focused on what lies ahead this week as we prepare the players for Friday’s Hull derby. Our aim has always been to make our community proud and we aim to do that every week.”
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Highlights of the World Club Challenge between Hull KR and Brisbane Broncos.
Hull KR’s statement thanked Peters for everything he had achieved during his trophy-laden spell as head coach, but they insisted that time was not over yet.
“After four years as one of the most successful coaches in modern history, taking us to the pinnacle of the sport as world champions, Willie retires with best wishes to everyone at the club.”
“The club would also like to thank Willie for giving us advance notice of his decision, allowing sufficient time for candidates to come forward and consider all options.
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Highlights of the Betfred Super League match between Hull KR and St Helens.
“Developing world-class talent that others will want to attract is part of running an elite sports club. We believe that the interest our talent attracts from around the world is testament to the club and the culture we are building.”
“At the appropriate time, the club will recognize Willie’s significant contribution in recent years. However, for now, the entire club’s focus remains on the 2026 season and there is much to achieve.”
Hull KR owner Neil Hudgell added: “As the coach of a world club champion, he deserves to be treated on his terms. We wish him our respect, gratitude and best wishes.”
“Willie Peters led us to the most successful season in Hull Rugby League history in 2025. For now, and for the rest of this year, he will continue to drive a culture of success.”
