Mark McCall Steps Down as Saracens Director of Rugby

Saracens have confirmed that Mark McCall will step down from his role as director of rugby at the end of the current season. After an impressive tenure spanning 15 consecutive seasons, McCall will transition to a technical adviser position and will join the club’s board. His departure marks a significant change for the club as they prepare for the 2026-27 season with Brendan Venter returning to lead the rugby programme full-time.

Venter, who originally held this role at Saracens starting in 2009, was instrumental in recruiting McCall as first-team coach. During his previous tenure, Saracens achieved notable success in both the Premiership and European competitions. Following a period in which Venter served as a part-time technical adviser, his return aims to bring a renewed sense of leadership to the club.

Reflecting on his time at Saracens, McCall stated on the club’s official 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.”

Venter expressed his enthusiasm about resuming leadership, saying, “I am incredibly proud to once again lead the rugby programme. Mark’s continued involvement was key to me accepting the appointment.”

The club has emphasized that this leadership transition aims to foster a “sense of continuity and collaboration” as Saracens embarks on its “next chapter.” With McCall’s extensive experience and Venter’s proven track record, Saracens is poised to navigate the upcoming season with stability and ambition.