🚫 The biggest contract saga in recent NRL history appears to have reached a critical turning point. Brisbane Broncos and Kangaroos superstar prop Payne Haas has reportedly decided to remain loyal to the NRL, turning down a staggering, tax-free offer that many believed would be impossible to refuse from the rebel rugby competition, R360.
The Unthinkable Offer and NRL Pressure
From its inception, the unsanctioned R360 competition identified Haas as its marquee target, with reports suggesting the Broncos forward could command as much as $3 million per season. The sheer financial scale of the offer led to widespread belief that the world’s premier prop would defect, prompting NRL powerbrokers—including ARL Commission Chairman Peter V’Landys—to reportedly consider direct, personal intervention to secure his commitment to the traditional league.
However, in a remarkable development first reported by CODE Sports, Haas has allegedly informed a trusted NRL associate that his intentions are to stay put. This revelation marks a huge victory for the NRL and a major turning point for the Brisbane Broncos, who faced the prospect of losing the biggest potential defector in the game.
Viability Concerns Outweigh Financial Gain
The decision appears to have been heavily influenced by significant concerns surrounding the stability and long-term outlook of the fledgling R360 venture. While R360 officials were initially bullish about launching an F1-style competition next October, industry insiders are now privately questioning whether the organization possesses the necessary financial foundations and long-term viability.
These stability concerns reportedly weighed heavily on the 25-year-old prop, particularly as speculation intensified this week. Even before the decision was made, Haas was issued a stark warning: signing with R360, due to its unsanctioned status, could result in a lifetime NRL ban. The ARL Commission is reportedly preparing severe, career-ending penalties for any player who chooses to defect.
Focusing on Legacy and International Ambitions
Haas, who is currently holidaying overseas with his family, reportedly received these warnings and viability concerns, prompting him to lean strongly toward remaining with the Broncos. The reported sentiment expressed to an NRL associate indicates he is unwilling to gamble his burgeoning career on a competition shrouded in uncertainty.
Haas is considered the biggest “cog” in the Broncos’ engine room, having played a key role in their most dominant campaign last season. Brisbane officials are now optimistic about securing a long-term extension valued at more than $3.5 million in total, with his annual value expected to push towards the $1.5 million mark with future salary-cap increases.
Another critical factor in his decision is his strong desire to represent Samoa at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. Haas is determined to honor his family and continue his international career without restriction, a pathway that the NRL can guarantee.
Broncos Chief Executive Dave Donaghy confirmed the club plans to meet with the powerhouse prop immediately upon his return to Brisbane, reaffirming that Haas has a secure place at Red Hill for as long as he desires.