Mickey Harte steps down as Derry manager

Mickey Harte has stepped down as manager of the Derry senior footballers.

The Tyrone native was nearing the end of the first year of a three-year term.

Harte led Derry to the Allianz Football League title in March.

However, Derry were beaten by Donegal, Galway and Armagh during the course of the Championship, before a quarter-final loss to Kerry.

The Irish Examiner reports that in a statement he said: "I would like to thank the players for the huge commitment they gave to the Derry jersey during the 2024 season," Harte says.

"I would also like to thank Gavin and the entire backroom team for their hard work, dedication and expertise. Thanks too for the support of the County Board and all those generous sponsors of the GAA in Derry. Finally, I wish the players every success in the years ahead.”

Meanwhile, a statement from the count board says: "Derry GAA confirm that Mickey Harte has informed the Derry County Board that he has decided to step down from his position with the Derry Senior Football team.

"During his tenure, Mickey guided the team to win both the Bank of Ireland Dr. McKenna Cup and Allianz National Football League; delivering a first national title for the county since 2008."