Kilcoo appoint legendary Tyrone boss Mickey Harte for 2027 campaign

Mickey Harte is set to take charge of Kilcoo for the 2027 season, with the three-time All-Ireland-winning manager appointed following the club’s exit from this year’s Down Senior Football Championship.

The Magpies confirmed that Harte had been "unanimously ratified" as manager on Tuesday evening, marking a new chapter for the Down club after their run of dominance in the county championship came to an end.

Kilcoo, All-Ireland champions in 2022, were beaten by Burren in the semi-finals, missing out on the Down title for the first time since 2018. The club had won 13 of the previous 14 championships before this year’s defeat.

Harte has been without a managerial position since July, when he stepped down as joint-manager of Offaly after working alongside Declan Kelly since 2024.

The Tyrone native established his reputation during an 18-year spell in charge of his home county, guiding the Red Hands to All-Ireland Senior Football Championship titles in 2003, 2005 and 2008. He also led Tyrone to six Ulster titles during his tenure.

Since departing the Tyrone post in 2020, Harte has managed both Louth and Derry before his spell with Offaly.

His appointment gives Kilcoo an experienced manager as they look to return to the top of Down football in 2027.