Former Super League and international head coach John Kear has died aged 71, just hours after serving as BBC co-commentator for the Challenge Cup final at Wembley. The Rugby Football League confirmed his sudden passing on Sunday as he traveled north from the stadium, marking a tragic end to a remarkable career spanning over seven decades in professional rugby league.

Kear's legacy rests on two of the Challenge Cup's greatest upsets: Sheffield Eagles' victory over Wigan in the 1998 Challenge Cup final at Wembley, and Hull FC's triumph against Leeds in the 2005 final at Cardiff. These achievements defined his reputation as a master tactician who could inspire underdogs to extraordinary heights. His coaching career included stints at Wakefield, where he successfully avoided relegation, and Bradford Bulls from 2017 until 2022.

As England coach during the 2000 World Cup, Kear guided his nation to the semi-finals, demonstrating his international pedigree. He later coached Wales from 2014 to 2025, overseeing 15 matches with a balanced record of seven wins, seven losses, and one draw. His final coaching role came in June 2025 when he returned to Batley for a brief spell that concluded his remarkable 700-game milestone.

RFL and colleagues paid tribute to Kear as a passionate advocate for rugby league who brought eloquence to BBC broadcasts. Sky Sports commentator Dave Woods remembered him as humble, friendly, and always eager to discuss the sport with anyone. The rugby community mourns a coach who shaped multiple generations of players and fans through his tactical brilliance and genuine love for the game.