Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall to stand down at end of season

Press Association Sport staff

Saracens have announced Mark McCall will step down from his role as director of rugby at the end of the season, with Brendan Venter set to return full-time for the start of the 2026-27 campaign.

Following 15 consecutive seasons in the job, McCall will remain at the club as technical adviser and will also join the board.

South African Venter is set to return to a position he first held at the club in 2009, having then recruited McCall as first-team coach, before switching to a part-time role as technical adviser, with Saracens going on to enjoy success in both the Premiership and Europe.

McCall said on the Saracens website: “I am immensely proud of what we have achieved at Saracens and grateful for the opportunity to have led the rugby programme for so long.

“I feel the time is right for change, while still remaining deeply involved in the club I care so much about. I am really looking forward to supporting Brendan and contributing in a way that helps Saracens continue to move forward.”

Saracens said the upcoming changes next season will provide a “sense of continuity and collaboration” under the new structure as the club moves into its “next chapter”.

Venter added: “I am incredibly proud to once again lead the rugby programme. Mark’s continued involvement was key to me accepting the appointment.”