Rajasthan Royals on Saturday confirmed that head coach Rahul Dravid will step down ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Dravid, who was appointed in September 2024, declined an offer to take up a broader role within the Royals’ structure. The decision comes on the back of a difficult IPL 2025 campaign, where the Royals finished ninth out of 10 teams with just four victories in 14 matches. 

For the Royals, Dravid’s exit also closes a long-running chapter. He first wore the pink jersey in 2011, leading the side as captain for two seasons before transitioning into team director and mentor in 2014 and 2015. The franchise is now set for a significant reset as it prepares for the upcoming season and the player mini auction.

‘His leadership influenced generation of players’

In a social media post, the franchise said, “Rajasthan Royals today announced that head coach Rahul Dravid will conclude his tenure with the franchise ahead of IPL 2026. Rahul has been central to the Royals’ journey for many years. His leadership has influenced a generation of players, instilled strong values within the squad, and left an indelible mark on the culture of the franchise.”

“As part of the franchise structural review, Rahul had been offered a broader position at the franchise, but has chosen not to take this. The Rajasthan Royals, its players, and millions of fans worldwide extend heartfelt thanks to Rahul for his remarkable service to the franchise,” the statement further read.

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Adding to the uncertainty, rumours suggest skipper Sanju Samson is also considering an exit, which could leave the Royals in a precarious position just months before the mini auction.

Dravid donned many hats with RR

Dravid wasn’t just a figure in the dugout for the franchise. He was central to shaping Rajasthan Royals’ auction table strategy and player retention going into the new three-year IPL cycle. 

Under his watch, the franchise held on to a strong Indian core in Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel and Riyan Parag, alongside overseas mainstay Shimron Hetmyer.