Breaking Mickey Harte steps down as Derry manager

Mickey Harte has stepped down as Derry manager after just a single season in charge of the Oakleaf County.

The three-time All-Ireland winning manager with Tyrone made a shock move from Louth before the 2024 season and quickly added silverware in the form of the McKenna Cup and that was followed by a thrilling Division 1 title following a penalty shootout victory over Dublin at Croke Park.

Given their run to the previous two All-Ireland semi-finals, an assault on the Sam Maguire was expected but their season all but collapsed following heavy losses to Donegal, Galway and Armagh.

Despite those three losses, a nervy win over Westmeath in the midst of rumours of discontent in the camp was followed by another penalty shootout success, this time against Mayo in Castlebar, to revive their season.

The All-Ireland quarter-final draw pitted them against Kerry and their season came to an end following a 0-15 to 0-10 loss to the Kingdom.

The process to find Harte's replacement is expected to begin on Tuesday night when county board officials meet.

Chairperson of Derry GAA, John Keenan, thanked Harte for his efforts in 2024.

"We sincerely thank Mickey, Gavin (Devlin, coach) and their entire backroom team for their hard work and dedication throughout the 2024 season. We wish them the very best in their future endeavours."