Newcastle Red Bulls head coach Alan Dickens will leave his post with immediate effect, the PREM club have confirmed.
Dickens, who was already confirmed to be heading out of Kingston Park at the end of the current season, has left his post by mutual consent to allow him time to pursue other opportunities.
He is the second senior coaching figure to leave the club this season, following the departure of previous director of rugby Steve Diamond.
Dickens leaves the Red Bulls with the club sat bottom of the PREM table with one win from their opening 10 games, but they remain in the hunt for the EPCR Challenge Cup title after reaching the last-16.
Newcastle Red Bulls coach leaves post as replacement confirmed
In a statement, Newcastle Red Bulls said: “Newcastle Red Bulls can confirm that Alan Dickens will leave his role as head coach on Monday, 16 March 2026, following a mutual agreement reached at Alan’s request to allow him to pursue other opportunities.
“Alan joined the club in June 2024 and has contributed during a significant period in the club’s development. We thank him for his contribution and for his work with players and staff during his time here.
“Everyone at Newcastle Red Bulls wishes Alan and his family every success for the future, and the next stage of his career.
Confirming their next steps, the Red Bulls added: “Stephen Jones will assume the role of head coach until the end of the current season.”
The Wales and British and Irish Lions icon arrived in the North East at the start of the season following a successful stint with Super Rugby side Moana Pasifika.
His first game as acting head coach will come this weekend, with the Red Bulls returning to PREM action with a trip to Northampton Saints.
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The departure of Dickens comes earlier than expected, with the club previously confirming he would depart at the end of the current campaign.
Commenting on his impending exit last month, club sporting general manager, Neil McIlroy said: “Alan is a very well-respected coach who has made a significant contribution here.
“On behalf of the entire club I want to thank him for the professionalism he has shown throughout our ongoing re-organisation, and for his continued commitment in striving to finish the season strongly.
Dickens added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Newcastle and remain fully committed for the remainder of my contract.
“It’s no secret there have been some difficult times up here, but the people have been incredible and it has been a hugely fulfilling experience.
“It’s a very exciting time for the club with everything going on under the new ownership, and I mean it when I say I wish them every success for the future.”
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