Fresh reports have emerged.
13:27, 26 Mar 2026Updated 13:32, 26 Mar 2026
Hull KR are preparing for Willie Peters’ exit at the end of the year.
Willie Peters’ impact at Hull KR is nothing short of legendary. Since taking charge in 2023, the Australian coach has guided the Robins on a meteoric rise that will be remembered for generations.
Last year, Peters masterminded a historic season, claiming every major trophy on offer. It began with a dramatic Challenge Cup triumph over Warrington Wolves at Wembley, ending the club’s long wait for silverware. The League Leaders’ Shield followed, with Hull KR losing just five games all season. Ultimate glory came at Old Trafford, where Rovers toppled Wigan Warriors to be crowned Super League champions.
The celebrations were unforgettable: two open-top bus parades through the city, ending at Queen Victoria Square, where thousands of fans cheered their hometown heroes. Peters and this iconic Hull KR squad have truly etched their names in history.
But all fairytales have an ending. Hull KR are preparing for 2026 to be Peters’ last at Sewell Group Craven Park, first reported by Love Rugby League. The 47-year-old is set to return Down Under, heavily linked with the vacant PNG Chiefs role ahead of their inaugural NRL season in 2028 as the competition expands to 19 teams.
It’s a decision that surely hasn’t been easy, but Peters has long held ambitions to coach in the NRL, having previously served as an assistant coach at South Sydney Rabbitohs, Manly Sea Eagles and Newcastle Knights. After guiding Hull KR to the top – including World Club Challenge glory with an emotional win over Brisbane Broncos in February – Peters is set to chase his dream role and continue his winning ways.
Peters has long made it clear his desire to return to the NRL, and has not been shy in discussing his interest in a number of jobs of late, including the PNG Chiefs position. Speaking recently he said: “I believe I’m ready to go. The only way you can show that is by getting an opportunity in the NRL and proving yourself.
“It’s a unique opportunity because it’s a team where you can create the culture and DNA of a club for many years. But setting up the culture of PNG would excite me.”
His departure will leave big shoes to fill. Forward-thinking CEO Paul Lakin, who shares a close daily rapport with Peters, will lead the search for a successor. For fans and the club alike, it marks the end of a very special chapter.
Hull KR’s golden era under Peters may be drawing to a close, but the memories – and the trophies – will last a lifetime.