End of an Era: Coach Matt Peet Announce resignation to Wigan Warriors After Accepting $51Million Deal from…….

End of an Era: Coach Matt Peet Announces Resignation from Wigan Warriors After Accepting $51 Million Deal from Sydney Roosters

WIGAN, UK — April 19, 2025

Wigan Warriors head coach Matt Peet has officially announced his resignation from the club after accepting a blockbuster $51 million deal to join Australian NRL powerhouse, the Sydney Roosters. The shock move ends Peet’s transformative tenure at Wigan, marking the conclusion of one of the most successful coaching eras in recent Super League history.

Peet, who has been at the helm since 2022, will leave Wigan at the end of the current season, following a campaign that has already seen the club mount a strong challenge for the Super League title. Under his leadership, the Warriors reclaimed their position as a dominant force in rugby league, clinching the Super League title in 2023 and the Challenge Cup in 2022.

The 39-year-old coach confirmed the news in a press conference held Friday morning at DW Stadium.

“This was not an easy decision,” Peet said. “Wigan has been my home, not just professionally but personally as well. I’ve grown up in this club, and it’s meant everything to me. But the opportunity presented by the Sydney Roosters is one I couldn’t ignore. It’s a new challenge on the other side of the world, in one of the toughest leagues in rugby. I’m incredibly grateful to Wigan for everything.”

Peet’s deal with the Roosters is reported to be worth $51 million over five years, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in rugby league history. The Sydney-based club has been aggressive in its pursuit of top-tier coaching talent after a string of underwhelming NRL campaigns. They see Peet as the visionary leader who can restore their former glory.

Wigan Warriors chairman Ian Lenagan expressed both pride and disappointment at the departure.

“Matt has been instrumental in returning Wigan to its rightful place at the top of the Super League. While we’re heartbroken to see him go, we understand that this is a life-changing opportunity. He leaves with our utmost respect, and he will always be welcome back at Wigan.”

Peet’s journey with the Warriors is the stuff of local legend. A Wigan native, he began his coaching career in the club’s youth development system and quickly rose through the ranks. Known for his emphasis on discipline, culture, and player development, Peet brought a modern, holistic approach to coaching that reaped immediate rewards.

Under his stewardship, Wigan’s defense became the most feared in the league, and he played a crucial role in developing young stars who have gone on to earn international honors.

His move to the Roosters comes at a pivotal moment in international rugby league, with growing interest in cross-hemisphere transfers and the globalization of the sport. Peet’s decision could pave the way for more British coaches to seek opportunities in the NRL, which is widely regarded as the most competitive rugby league in the world.

For Wigan, the focus now turns to the future. Assistant coach Sean O’Loughlin is among the rumored candidates to succeed Peet, though the club has yet to confirm its plans.

As the season continues, Peet has vowed to give everything for the remainder of his time at Wigan.

“There’s still work to be done, and I’m committed to giving 100% for this badge until the final whistle of the final game,” he said.

The news has sent shockwaves through both the Super League and NRL communities, signaling a new chapter in the sport’s evolving landscape — one where coaching moves may become just as headline-grabbing as player transfers.

As Wigan prepares to say goodbye to one of its most successful coaches in recent memory, the legacy Matt Peet leaves behind is undeniable — and his journey is only just beginning.