Michael Cheika departs Leicester Tigers after single season

Leicester Tigers head coach Michael Cheika has announced he will leave at the end of the current season after choosing not to extend his one-year contract. His decision follows a significant defeat against Toulouse, which contributed to delayed discussions about his future. Chief executive Andrea Pinchen expressed disappointment but acknowledged the contract's one-year nature and confirmed that the club is actively searching for a replacement. Potential candidates to succeed Cheika include former Leicester prop Graham Rowntree and Franco Smith, who recently led Glasgow Warriors to a title. Cheika's tenure has seen Leicester positioned fourth in the Premiership and advance to the knockout stages of the European Champions Cup, despite facing some record losses. He is expected to return to Australia after his departure, possibly seeking a coaching role in rugby league.