Sean Long in surprise coaching departure from Championship outfit Oldham
Championship club Oldham have confirmed that Sean Long has left his position as head coach by mutual consent.
The 49-year-old was under contract with the Roughyeds until the end of the 2026 season, but he has now departed Boundary Park with immediate effect.
Wigan-born Long took charge of Oldham in 2024, guiding the club to the League 1 title, whilst clinching promotion to the Championship.
The former Great Britain and St Helens legend led Oldham to a top-four finish in their return to the second tier with a star-studded squad featuring the likes of Gil Dudson, Jordan Turner, Adam Milner, Iain Thornley, Elijah Taylor, Josh Drinkwater and Matty Ashurst.
But Oldham and Long have now parted ways, with the Roughyeds saying further details on their 2026 coaching team will be shared in due course.
"Oldham can confirm that Sean Long has left his position as head coach by mutual consent,” a club statement read.
“Sean guided the club to the League 1 title and a top-four Championship finish in his two seasons with the Roughyeds.
“We thank him for his efforts and he leaves with the best wishes of everyone at Oldham RLFC.
“Further details of our 2026 coaching team will be shared in due course.”
Oldham had applied to be part of Super League’s expanded 14-team competition for the upcoming season, but were beaten by York Knights and Toulouse Olympique for the two extra spots.
Meanwhile, Bradford Bulls sealed their return to Super League for the first time in over a decade based on the IMG gradings, with struggling Salford Red Devils relegated.
Long’s next destination has yet to be confirmed.