In a significant mid-season shake-up, Catalans Dragons head coach Joel Tomkins has departed the club after just nine months in charge. The 39-year-old cited the personal challenge of being away from his family as the primary reason for his decision to step down.

Tomkins, a former dual-code international and the older brother of rugby league legend Sam Tomkins, took the helm in Perpignan last June following Steve McNamara's exit. He had signed a long-term deal only last July, a commitment that was set to run through the 2027 campaign.

His departure leaves the French club at a crossroads during the Super League season. For their last three matches, coaching duties have been handled by a trio of Ryan Sheridan, Michael McIlorum, and Mitchell Pearce, who will continue in temporary charge. The Dragons currently hold a 4-3 record in the league and are coming off a Challenge Cup quarter-final exit to St Helens.

In a statement, Tomkins expressed gratitude for his time with the club, stating, "I'm leaving the club a better coach than when I arrived." He emphasized the difficulty of the lifestyle, adding, "living away from my family for such a long time has been difficult," which ultimately led to his choice to terminate his contract early.

This move marks a quick end to Tomkins' first major head coaching role, following a decorated playing career that included two stints with Wigan Warriors and a spell with the Catalans Dragons as a player before his retirement in 2021.