Hold onto your hats, rugby league fans, because the NRL world has just been shaken to its core! In a move that’s sure to spark heated debates, Broncos superstar Payne Haas is reportedly packing his bags for Sydney, leaving Brisbane behind to join the South Sydney Rabbitohs. But here’s where it gets controversial—just weeks after rumors suggested he’d stay with the Broncos for 2027, Haas has seemingly done a 180, signing a three-year deal with the Bunnies instead. What’s the real story behind this sudden switch? And this is the part most people miss—could the influence of Rabbitohs stars like David Fifita and Latrell Mitchell have tipped the scales? Let’s dive in.
The bombshell news was first reported by Code Sports, revealing that Haas won’t be re-signing with Brisbane, despite earlier indications he’d commit to the Broncos after the World Club Challenge. Instead, he’s set to join Wayne Bennett’s Rabbitohs at the end of the 2026 season, leaving fans and analysts alike scratching their heads. The Broncos confirmed the move in a brief statement, noting that Haas and his management had formally advised the club of his decision. A signed contract has been lodged with the NRL, though both teams are respecting the standard ten-day cooling-off period before making further comments.
This development comes at a particularly interesting time, as Haas and the Broncos prepare to head to England for their highly anticipated World Club Challenge match against Hull KR. Haas has reportedly already shared his decision with his Brisbane teammates, adding another layer of intrigue to the team’s upcoming international showdown.
For months, Haas’s future has been a hot topic, especially amid rumors he was considering a code switch to R360. When the R360 start date was delayed by two years, the Broncos seemed poised to secure his signature for 2027. Earlier this month, reports even suggested Haas had agreed to a one-year deal with Brisbane, which he planned to sign post-World Club Challenge. So, what changed? Did the Rabbitohs simply outbid the Broncos, or is there more to this story?
According to Code Sports, South Sydney stars David Fifita and Latrell Mitchell played a pivotal role in convincing Haas to make the move. If true, this raises questions about player recruitment tactics and the dynamics within NRL teams. Is it fair for players to actively poach talent from rival clubs, or is this just part of the game? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
The Rabbitohs, for their part, wasted no time in confirming the news, releasing a statement shortly after the story broke on Sunday afternoon. They’ve lodged the signed contract with the NRL for the 2027, 2028, and 2029 seasons, though they’re also adhering to the cooling-off period rules. But here’s the million-dollar question: Will this move elevate the Rabbitohs to premiership contenders, or will it backfire for both Haas and his new team?
As fans, we’re left with plenty to ponder. Is Haas’s decision a betrayal of the Broncos, or a smart career move? Will this shake-up disrupt Brisbane’s momentum, or will they rise above it? And what does this mean for the balance of power in the NRL? One thing’s for sure—this saga is far from over. Let us know your take in the comments below, and stay tuned as this story continues to unfold!
