Shockwaves are rippling through the NRL world as a Broncos superstar appears set to make a dramatic move to Sydney!
In a development that has sent the rugby league community into a frenzy, star prop Payne Haas is reportedly on the verge of leaving the Brisbane Broncos at the conclusion of the 2026 season. His next destination? The South Sydney Rabbitohs in Sydney!
This news, first reported by Code Sports, suggests that Haas will not be extending his contract with Brisbane. Instead, he's expected to sign a three-year deal with the iconic Bunnies, under the guidance of legendary coach Wayne Bennett. This move would see one of the game's most dominant forwards trading the sunshine state for the bright lights of Sydney.
But here's where it gets interesting... Haas has been a hot topic all off-season, with whispers of a potential code switch to R360 even circulating. When the R360 start date was pushed back by two years, many believed the Broncos were in prime position to secure his signature for 2027. In fact, reports earlier this month indicated Haas had even agreed to a one-year deal for 2027 with Brisbane, planning to sign it after the World Club Challenge.
And this is the part most people miss: it appears the Rabbitohs have managed to swoop in with an offer that was simply too good to refuse, potentially turning Haas's head away from his previous intentions. Sources suggest that Rabbitohs stars David Fifita and Latrell Mitchell played a significant role in convincing Haas to make the switch.
The Brisbane Broncos have officially acknowledged the reports, stating, "The Brisbane Broncos can confirm that Payne Haas and his management have advised the Broncos that he intends to depart the Club at the end of the 2026 season. A signed contract reflecting that position has been lodged with the NRL and the Broncos will make no further comment on the matter until the expiration of the normal ten-day cooling off period."
Similarly, the South Sydney Rabbitohs released their own statement: "The South Sydney Rabbitohs have lodged a signed contract with the NRL for Payne Haas to join the Club for the 2027, 2028 and 2029 seasons. The contract is now subject to the ten-day cooling-off period. The Rabbitohs will be respecting the cooling-off period rules set by the NRL. The Rabbitohs will make no further comment regarding this until the ten-day cooling-off period has expired."
This entire saga unfolds as Haas and the Broncos are preparing to travel to England for their World Club Challenge match against Hull KR. It's understood Haas has already informed his Brisbane teammates of his decision.
So, what do you think? Is this a massive coup for the Rabbitohs, or a devastating loss for the Broncos? Do you believe Haas made the right choice for his career? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
