Flanagan axed as coach of winless Dragons despite three-year extension

The St George Illawarra Dragons have parted ways with coach Shane Flanagan after seven straight losses to start the 2026 NRL season.

Starting 2026 with an impressive showing to push Canterbury to golden point in Las Vegas, the Dragons have lost every game this year, including a 30-12 defeat to the Rabbitohs on Saturday.

General manager of football Ben Haran has also been let go.

In August last year, Flanagan's contract was extended through to the end of 2028.

"Shane has played a critical role in setting the foundation for where this club is heading," Dragons chief executive Tim Watsford said at the time.

"He's re-instilled belief in our playing group, coaches and supporters together with reiterating the privilege of wearing the Red V."

Watsford said the re-signing was evidence of the club's commitment to "building a sustainable future", rather than focusing on short-term goals.

"The Dragons are proud of the progress that is being made and remain focused on continuing the journey toward consistent finals contention, driven by a committed group of players, staff, and loyal supporters," he said.

"This is an exciting era for the Red V; one built on resilience, local pride, and an unwavering belief in the future."

The extension came days after the Dragons beat ladder leaders Canberra. The team beat similarly finals-bound Cronulla a day later, but then started an 11-game losing streak that is yet to end.

They wrapped up last year with four straight losses, three times conceding 40 points, as Flanagan's side slipped to 15th on the ladder to continue a run of seven straight years missing the finals.

The Dragons have only won three finals games since winning the premiership in 2011.

Flanagan is the second NRL coach to be sacked this season with years left on his deal, after Manly ditched Anthony Seibold despite being contracted through 2027.