Hamilton Accies surprised as Brian Rice quits manager’s job

The club says they have accepted Rice's resignation and wish him the best for the future.

11th Aug 2021

Hamilton Academical have announced that Brian Rice has left his position as manager after tendering his resignation.

The Championship side said that they had no previous indication that Rice was considering leaving the club but have accepted his departure after speaking with the 57-year-old.

Chairman Allan Maitland said in a club statement: “Today, without any previous indications, we received a letter of resignation from Brian Rice.

“Whilst it has come as a surprise, we now fully understand his reasoning for leaving at this time, and have, with regret, accepted his resignation.

“It has been an extremely difficult 18 months dealing with all the issues surrounding the pandemic, including the recent relegation from the Premiership, and there’s no doubt that it has taken its toll on Brian, his staff and everyone connected to the club.”

Rice took over at the club in 2019, keeping Accies in the top flight for two seasons but presiding over relegation in May.

The club had backed the manager before relegation, saying that he would remain in charge if the team did lose their Premiership status, and he has been in the dugout through their League Cup group games and opening two Championship fixtures.