In a jaw-dropping turn of events, the Collingwood AFL community has been left reeling after head coach Craig McRae made a stunning and unexpected decision to resign from his position, just months into his highly anticipated second stint with the club.
The bombshell announcement, delivered earlier this morning at a hastily arranged press conference at the AIA Centre, has sent shockwaves through the organisation and the broader AFL world.
McRae, who led the Magpies to their 16th premiership just two seasons ago and was widely praised for revitalising the team’s culture and game style, cited “deeply personal reasons” for his immediate departure, adding that the decision was “not taken lightly” but “absolutely necessary.”
“I love this club with all my heart,” McRae said, visibly emotional. “But right now, stepping away is the right thing to do — for my family, for myself, and ultimately for this team.”
Players and staff were reportedly blindsided by the announcement, with several senior figures said to be “shocked and disappointed,” but respectful of McRae’s decision.
Club president Jeff Browne addressed the media shortly after the news broke, stating:
“Craig has given everything to this club — as a player, a coach, and a leader. While we are deeply saddened by his resignation, we fully support him and thank him for everything he’s done.”
The timing of the resignation — coming just weeks out from the start of pre-season preparations — has raised urgent questions about the club’s direction heading into 2026. Assistant coach Hayden Skipworth is expected to step in as interim head coach while the club begins an immediate search for a long-term replacement.
The wider AFL community has responded with disbelief, as fans, players, and former colleagues flood social media with tributes and reactions. Some insiders speculate that internal pressures and off-field developments may have contributed to McRae’s sudden departure, though nothing has been confirmed.
As the Collingwood faithful come to terms with the news, one thing is certain: the legacy of Craig McRae’s time at the helm — highlighted by unity, resurgence, and a memorable premiership — will not be forgotten anytime soon.
