Keane parts ways with Clare after one season in charge

Peter Keane has stepped down as Clare football manager ©INPHO/Ben Brady

Clare senior football manager Peter Keane has stepped down from his post after just one season at the helm.

In a statement released by Clare county board on Sunday afternoon, Keane cited “a combination of factors” as the reasoning behind his decision to step down.

Having taken over the Banner men last November, the team’s Allianz League campaign saw them missing out on a place in the Division 3 final through score difference before they went on to reach the Munster SFC final where they lost to Keane’s native Kerry by 11 points.

The All-Ireland series would see Clare defeated in all three of their group stage fixtures against Down, Monaghan and Louth, respectively, with the 2-17 to 2-14 loss to the Leinster champions in Portlaoise on June 15th now officially marking Keane’s last game in charge.

"It is with regret that I am unable to commit to managing Clare Senior Footballers for the year ahead,” the Cahersiveen man’s statement read.

"A combination of factors are influencing my decision, namely growing business demands, plus travel and time challenges.

"I really enjoyed my time working with a great panel of footballers, whose commitment and dedication was first class. Their desire to be better footballers and play for their county at the highest level was exemplary.

"They were both a privilege and a pleasure to train and work with, to manage, represent Clare, playing with pride and I wish them all the very best for the future".

Clare county board chairman Kieran Keating said: "I know from discussing Clare football matters with Peter over the past year that his interest in our cause was genuine and his engagement with our players was always enthusiastic and forthright.

"The logistics of his journey to Clare a number of times a week for the duration of the season proved difficult to manage alongside his business interests and personal/family commitments, and whilst we had sincerely hoped Peter could remain in the manager's role, we accept his decision with the grace he brought to the appointment.

"We will now look to appoint a new manager and management team as soon as practicable to ensure we are prepared and ready for the 2026 season."

Clare GAA Statement - 10.08.2025 pic.twitter.com/2jztZFuQRY

— Clare Gaa (@GaaClare) August 10, 2025