Hull KR part ways with head coach Tony Smith immediately

Hull KR have sacked coach Tony Smith with immediate effect, with his assistant Danny McGuire taking over the head coaching reins.

Smith’s sacking comes two days after the Robins lost 28-6 in the south of France against Super League’s bottom club Toulouse.

McGuire will be placed in charge on an interim basis. Incoming head coach Willie Peters arrives at the end of the year ahead of next season.

Smith made his bombshell announcement that he would be leaving the Robins in a press conference back in April. The Australian’s decision took the club’s hierarchy by surprise; he informed owner Neil Hudgell of his decision just minutes before making it public.

Smith made a pledge to see out his contract with the Robins until the end of the season, but a dip in form has seen the club act abruptly.

Hull KR statement on Tony Smith

A club statement read: “The club have this morning stood Tony Smith down as head coach for the remainder of the season. 

“Danny McGuire will take charge of all first team matters until Willie Peters arrives in the autumn.

“Danny will be assistant coach to Willie, having recently signed a three-year contract extension to stay with the Robins until the end of 2025.

“We would like to take the opportunity to thank Tony for all his hard work over the last three years. The club are in a much better place than when he started.”

Peters, who is currently assistant coach to NRL side Newcastle Knights, will take up a three-year deal with Hull KR ahead of next season.

Smith took over the reins at Craven Park in 2019. He led the Robins to the Super League play-off semi-finals last year.

PODCAST: Craig Lingard on Championship recruitment rules, Batley & two divisions of 14?

LOVE RUGBY LEAGUE: All the latest news, Podcast, App & Fantasy RL