Cardiff Blues can confirm John Mulvihill has left his position as head coach with immediate effect due to personal reasons.
The Australian took to the helm ahead of the 2018-19 season but departs as he approaches the final months of his three-year contract.
Discussions over a contract extension were taking place, however when the increasingly difficult personal circumstances were raised both parties agreed to bring the 55-year-old’s tenure in the Welsh capital to an amicable end.
Cardiff Blues chief executive Richard Holland said: “I would like to thank John for all of his efforts during his time at the club.
“It has been a very challenging period but he has overseen the development of numerous talented youngsters who have become first team regulars and a substantial increase in our international representation.
“With the unprecedented challenges of a global pandemic, it has become an increasingly difficult time in both professional rugby and John’s personal circumstances. He has not seen three of his daughters for two years now and this has played a significant part in the decision.
“Therefore it makes sense for both parties to move on immediately and we now wish John, Tracey and the girls all the very best for the future.”
The former Australian age-grade fly-half, was appointed following a robust process in conjunction with the Welsh Rugby Union and arrived with 20 years coaching experience including with Western Force in Super Rugby and in Japan’s Top League with Kintetsu Liners and Honda Heat.
Mulvihill said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and must thank everyone at club and the fantastic supporters for the welcome I received and the passion and dedication they have shown throughout.
“It has been an incredibly difficult period due to the financial challenges in regional rugby and that has been further exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic and the various implications, however I am enormously proud of our success in development.
“We have seen a host of young players graduate from our academy, make their senior debuts and establish themselves as vital members of the squad and our international representation has grown from four to six when I arrived, to 14 now. That is something I am very proud of.
“I always believed we could bring success to Cardiff Blues on the pitch and it is with sadness that I leave but with the nature of this season and the situation in the world currently, I have to put my family first and I’m looking forward to the next chapter.
“Cardiff Blues will remain a fond part of my life and I wish the club, players, coaches and staff every success for the future.”