NRL 2024: Michael Maguire released as Blues coach, to join Brisbane Broncos until 2027

Michael Maguire will be installed as coach of the Brisbane Broncos after the NSWRL granted this year’s series-winning mentor a release. SEE THE CONTRACT DETAILS

Michael Maguire will succeed Kevin Walters as Broncos coach after securing a release from the New South Wales Rugby League.

This masthead can reveal the Broncos have got their man with Maguire to coach Brisbane in 2025 after the premiership coach formally severed ties with the Blues on Monday.

The Broncos are poised to formalise a three-year deal for Maguire until the end of 2027.

It is understood Maguire spoke to NSWRL chiefs on Sunday night and was granted a release from the final year of his contract.

That has cleared the path for the Broncos to secure the signature of Maguire, who is expected to finalise a multi-year deal with Brisbane over the next 24 hours.

Maguire had instant success with the Blues this season, dethroning Billy Slater’s Maroons, and was primed to return for a second campaign with NSW before the Broncos bombshell involving Walters.

Walters parted ways with the Broncos last Thursday night, prompting Maguire to hold preliminary talks with Brisbane chiefs in recent days.

Maguire was Brisbane’s preferred candidate and the release from the NSWRL will see him unveiled as Walters’ successor.

The 50-year-old has been raging hot favourite to take over from Walters after the Broncos conducted a sweeping review into their season following a disappointing performance.

Maguire won a premiership with Souths in 2014 – breaking a 43-year Rabbitohs drought – and he will confident of also delivering Brisbane’s first title since 2006.

 

Originally published as NRL 2024: Michael Maguire released as Blues coach, to join Brisbane Broncos until 2027