Rugby league legend and broadcaster Kear dies aged 71
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- John Kear died at age 71 on Sunday while traveling home from the Challenge Cup final he had commentated for BBC Sport (Wigan vs Hull KR at Wembley).
- John Kear coached over 700 matches, including leading Sheffield Eagles to a surprise Challenge Cup win over Wigan in 1998 and Hull FC to a Challenge Cup triumph over Leeds Rhinos in 2005.
- John Kear served as England head coach at the 2000 World Cup, taking the team to the semi‑finals, and later coached Wales for 11 years, guiding them at the 2017 and 2021 World Cups.
- John Kear played 133 games for Castleford between 1978 and 1988 before moving into coaching.
- Nigel Wood said Kear was “loved and admired throughout the sport” and praised his broadcasting work for BBC Sport.
Why it matters: RFL and rugby league fans lose a beloved coach and broadcaster, while his family and colleagues mourn his passing; his legacy continues to inspire future coaches and commentators.
