August 14, 2026 — 4:42pmBilly Slater has sent shockwaves through Queensland rugby league, announcing his decision to step down as Maroons coach and triggering a hunt for a State of Origin successor to deliver the shield back north of the border.Having steered the side to three series wins from five attempts, the former legendary fullback will not return in a bid to avenge this year’s 2-1 series defeat to New South Wales – a fate sealed by the Blues’ against-the-odds game three triumph at Suncorp Stadium.Players had initially pleaded for Slater to remain in charge beyond the end of his 2026 contract – the likes of Harry Grant and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui expressing their hope he would extend his stay in the aftermath of the series loss.Billy Slater has become a wonderful coach at Origin level.Getty ImagesSlater had remained coy on where he saw his future throughout the campaign, and he has been regularly linked to the Melbourne Storm top job after it emerged Craig Bellamy had been diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disorder. Bellamy has since confirmed he would coach on in 2028. But on Friday, Slater confirmed he felt the time had come for him to step away – finishing with eight wins and seven losses as a coach, following a playing career which spanned 31 appearances across 15 years.“From being a boy who idolised this team, to a player, to guiding a group that has inspired our state, this has been one of the most rewarding things I’ve done in my life,” Slater said.“I want to thank the players, this group gave everything for the jersey, for each other and our state, and I’m proud of what we’ve built together.“To the staff, and to the QRL for the opportunity to lead this team, thank you.“And to my fellow Queenslanders, thank you for the trust you put in me to be our coach. Being a Queenslander has always been a huge part of who I am, and that will never change.”Slater’s decision means two new honchos will face off in the Origin furnace next year, after Matt King was announced to replace Laurie Daley at the helm of the Blues.The QRL confirmed the search for Slater’s successor would soon begin. The 43-year-old’s assistants for the 2026 series – Cam Smith, Matt Ballin and Ben Te’o – could loom as contenders to take the top job, having both also played for Queensland in their careers.Ballin is currently serving under Michael Maguire at the Brisbane Broncos, as did Te’o before his sudden departure after the club’s round three win against the Melbourne Storm.Te’o has been linked to a potential South Sydney homecoming under Wayne Bennett. Former Broncos and Maroons coach Kevin Walters, who coached the state from 2016 to 2019, is contracted to the Kangaroos until June 2028.QRL chair Brian Canavan thanked Slater for his outstanding contribution to the Maroons program and the broader game in Queensland.“Billy has made an extraordinary contribution to Queensland Rugby League, both as a player and as a coach,” Canavan said.“Over the past five seasons he has led the Maroons with authenticity, pride and a deep understanding of what it means to represent this state.“He has helped shape a new generation of Queensland players, sharing the values and standards that have defined the Maroons for decades.”“On behalf of the Queensland Rugby League, I want to sincerely thank Billy for his commitment, leadership and service. His impact on our organisation and on Queenslanders everywhere will be felt long after his tenure as coach concludes.”Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.More:State of OriginNRL 2026Queensland MaroonsNRL 2026Billy SlaterFrom our partners