After shocking the NRL last Sunday by announcing he would be leaving the Brisbane Broncos in 2027 to join the Rabbitohs, superstar prop Payne Haas has been the subject of intense speculation.
The 26-year-old has headed to the UK for the Broncos' tilt at World Club Challenge glory against Hull KR before returning home to begin his ninth and final season at Red Hill.
Speaking from London, Haas has issued the following statement:
"My decision, it was pretty hard to be honest. Obviously, I love the Broncos and it’s all I’ve known since I was a kid, since I came in from school.
"The main factor for me was family. Nothing else to be honest. I felt that being a leader for my family is probably the best move for us to have a change and a fresh new start.
"I’ve got lots of support down there as well with my family and my agent as well, he’s down there, he's like a second dad to myself and I need those kind of people around me especially now for my siblings and my daughter and for my son as well.
"So, I feel like I’m being a leader, I had to lead and make that decision and it was not just myself but my partner as well. We thought as a family that would be the best for us.
"I can’t believe the stuff with Madge.
"I can’t believe all the speculation and all the rumours that have been tossed up.
"It’s far from the truth to be honest and that’s me being honest and truthful and transparent, there’s nothing wrong with us, we just won a premiership together and we won a State of Origin together.
"We’ve got a great relationship, and I enjoy working hard under Madge.
"I’m a hard worker myself and that’s what I pride myself on. The way we work is what I love and I love doing that day in day out.
"For everyone saying that kind of stuff it’s not true and it’s unfair to Madge and the Broncs as well.
"For the '26 season I’m ready to go all in for the boys, especially my brothers here, the coaching staff and especially the fans.
"I want to give my all this year again and go back-to-back.
"That’s the main goal and I can’t wait to do that and enjoy the ride and just be present and take it day by day."
