The Penrith Panthers have confirmed a major coaching shake-up, with premiership-winning coach Ivan Cleary set to step down at the end of the 2027 NRL season.
The announcement officially ends one of the greatest coaching eras in modern rugby league history, but Panthers fans can breathe easy with the club already locking in a succession plan.
Panthers Choose Familiar Face
Current assistant coach Peter Wallace will take over as head coach from 2028 on a long-term deal. The Panthers confirmed Cleary informed the club he would not renew his contract beyond 2027, allowing the club to begin planning for the future now.
Cleary said the decision was about timing, family and ensuring the club remained stable moving forward. He also revealed he has no plans to coach another NRL club.
End Of A Panthers Dynasty?
Since returning to Penrith in 2019, Cleary has helped build one of the NRL’s most dominant dynasties, leading the club to four premierships and multiple grand finals.
While fans will be sad to see him eventually leave the top job, the Panthers believe promoting from within will help keep their winning culture alive for years to come.
