Brisbane, Australia – Broncos superstar forward Payne Haas has spoken candidly about the difficult decision to leave Brisbane and join the South Sydney Rabbitohs from 2027, revealing the “sleepless nights” and emotional toll behind the move. The NRL star emphasized the strong connection with coach Wayne Bennett as a key factor in making a “hard” decision easier.
Shockwaves Through the NRL
Haas’ announcement earlier this month stunned the rugby league world. The Broncos forward has signed a three-year deal with the Rabbitohs, including a player option for 2029, catching fans and teammates by surprise. His decision marks one of the most significant pre-arranged club switches in recent NRL history, with discussions reportedly taking months behind closed doors.
Jack Wighton, a fellow NRL star, revealed the personal impact of the news. Wighton said he had just woken from a nap when he saw Haas’ move on his phone, initially thinking it was an April Fool’s joke. The unexpected timing and high-profile nature of the decision left the NRL community buzzing, as Brisbane braces for life without one of its most dominant forwards.
Emotional Struggles and Tough Choices
Speaking about the decision, Haas admitted it wasn’t easy. “There were sleepless nights thinking about what’s right for me, my family, and my career,” he explained. He highlighted the intense mental pressure athletes face when weighing loyalty, ambition, and personal growth in professional sports. For Haas, the choice wasn’t just about switching clubs—it was about aligning with a coach whose mentorship he deeply values.
Wayne Bennett’s influence played a pivotal role. Haas praised Bennett’s leadership and the guidance he has provided throughout his career. The connection, Haas says, made the “hard” decision to leave Brisbane slightly easier to navigate. It’s clear that respect and trust between player and coach were major factors in his move to South Sydney.
Addressing Rumours
Amid speculation, Haas also addressed swirling rumours about potential drama or “BS” stories surrounding the transfer. He dismissed them as distractions from the real considerations behind his move, emphasizing that the decision was personal and professionally motivated rather than influenced by external gossip.
Preparing for the Future
As the Broncos begin the process of replacing one of their key forwards, attention is now on the “superstar” who will step into Haas’ role. The club faces a significant challenge in maintaining its competitive edge while also respecting Haas’ decision to pursue the next chapter in his career. Meanwhile, the Rabbitohs are set to gain a high-caliber forward capable of shaping their squad dynamics for years to come.
Haas’ move underscores the evolving landscape of the NRL, where loyalty, mentorship, and career strategy intersect in high-profile transfers. Fans and analysts alike are now watching closely to see how this decision will influence the trajectory of both clubs in the seasons ahead.