Mark McCall to step down as Saracens Director of Rugby

Saracens have confirmed that Mark McCall will step down as Director of Rugby at the end of the current season, bringing to a close a 15-year spell in the role.

McCall will remain closely involved with the club, continuing as Technical Adviser and joining the Saracens Board of Directors from the 2026/27 season.

The club has also announced that Brendan Venter will return in a full-time capacity to take over as Director of Rugby from the start of the 2026/27 campaign.

Venter previously held the position in 2009, when he recruited McCall as First Team Coach, a partnership that laid the foundations for the most successful era in Saracens’ history.

When Venter stepped back from full-time duties in 2011, McCall assumed the Director of Rugby role, with Venter remaining as Technical Adviser. That working relationship will continue under the new structure, maintaining continuity within the rugby programme.

Venter said McCall’s continued involvement was key to his decision to return as Director of Rugby.

“My association with Saracens has been continuous for more than seventeen years. I’m incredibly proud to once again lead the rugby programme. Mark’s continued involvement was key to me accepting the appointment.”

McCall stated that while the timing was right for a change, he remains committed to supporting the club’s future direction.

I’m immensely proud of what we’ve 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’m really looking forward to supporting Brendan and contributing in a way that helps Saracens continue to move forward.”