Tributes Pour in for John Kear, Legendary Rugby Coach and Commentator, Who Passes Away at 71
Former Super League and international head coach John Kear has died at the age of 71. Kear, who celebrated over 700 games as a head coach in 2025, was part of the BBC commentary team for the Challenge Cup final just days before his passing. Kear is best remembered for leading Sheffield Eagles to a historic upset against Wigan in the 1998 Challenge Cup final at Wembley. He also achieved a significant victory with Hull FC when they defeated Leeds in the 2005 final in Cardiff. The Rugby Football League (RFL) released a statement honoring Kear: "The RFL today pays tribute to John Kear, who died suddenly on Sunday afternoon returning north from Wembley. Our thoughts and condolences are with John's wife Dawn, his family, and friends." Kear served as the head coach of England during the 2000 World Cup, guiding the team to the semi-finals before joining Hull FC. His tenure at Wakefield lasted five years, where he notably helped them avoid relegation, impacting his hometown club Castleford. In 2011, Kear took charge at Batley and later coached Bradford Bulls until 2022. He returned to Batley in June 2025 for a brief period, marking the end of his coaching career. Additionally, Kear coached Wales from 2014 to 2025, leading them in 15 matches with a record of seven wins, seven losses, and one draw. Dave Woods, a close friend and Sky Sports commentator, expressed his sorrow: "This is devastating news for all of us, but especially for Dawn and for all of John's family. He was a great rugby league man... the most passionate and eloquent of evangelists for the sport." The rugby league community mourns the loss of a beloved figure and extends condolences to his family and friends.
Source: Sky Sports - 2026-06-01