Collingwood Head Coach Craig McRae Makes Shocking Decision That Could Derail the Team’s Season and Stun the AFL Community..
In a move that has blindsided players, supporters, and the entire AFL community, Collingwood Magpies head coach Craig McRae has announced a shocking mid-season decision that could send ripple effects through the entire league.
During a hastily arranged press conference at the AIA Centre, McRae addressed the media with a serious, measured tone. After a brief pause, he delivered the bombshell:
“Effective immediately, I will be stepping away from my duties as senior coach of the Collingwood Football Club.”
The room fell silent.
Coming off a strong start to the 2025 campaign, the Magpies had once again positioned themselves as premiership contenders under McRae’s leadership. But now, with finals still months away, the club’s trajectory has been thrown into uncertainty.
McRae, who led Collingwood to a premiership in 2023 and earned widespread admiration for his calm, player-focused coaching style, cited personal reasons for the departure — but offered little detail.
“This decision has not been made lightly. I love this club, these players, and our supporters with all I have. But at this moment in my life, I need to step away and focus on something bigger than football.”
Speculation is already swirling about what prompted the abrupt move. Some insiders suggest personal or family matters may be at the heart of the decision, while others wonder if burnout or behind-the-scenes tensions played a role.
Collingwood’s Football Director Graham Wright released a brief statement:
“We are completely blindsided by this announcement. While we respect Craig’s wishes, the timing is difficult — for the club, the players, and our season goals. We’ll regroup immediately and discuss interim coaching arrangements.”
The playing group is said to be “in shock,” with several senior players visibly emotional as they left training.
McRae’s departure not only shakes the Magpies’ premiership hopes but also stuns the broader AFL community. Coaches and players from rival clubs have already expressed their surprise and support, with Geelong’s Chris Scott saying, “Craig is one of the most respected coaches in the game. The league feels different without him.”
While Collingwood searches for direction in the aftermath, fans are left to process a season that has suddenly veered into unknown territory.
Whether this is a permanent farewell or a temporary pause in McRae’s journey, one thing is clear — the AFL world won’t be the same without Fly patrolling the sidelines.