BREAKING: Nathan Cleary Agrees to Three-Year $38.4 Million Contract Extension with the Penrith Panthers
In a groundbreaking announcement, Nathan Cleary, one of rugby league’s brightest stars, has agreed to a three-year contract extension with the Penrith Panthers, ensuring that the 26-year-old halfback will remain with the club until the end of the 2027 season. The deal, valued at an impressive $38.4 million, marks one of the most lucrative contracts in the history of the NRL and solidifies Cleary’s status as one of the sport’s most valuable players.
Cleary’s decision to commit to Penrith for the long term is a major coup for the club, which has seen a period of sustained success under his leadership. As the architect behind the Panthers’ dominant attacking play, Cleary has been instrumental in the team’s recent rise to the top of Australian rugby league, including their back-to-back NRL Premiership victories in 2021 and 2022. His influence on the field, coupled with his leadership qualities, has made him a pivotal figure in Penrith’s current dynasty.
The new deal makes Cleary the highest-paid player in the NRL, underscoring both his exceptional talent and the value he brings to the Panthers’ future ambitions. The $38.4 million extension is a testament to his consistent performances and the impact he has had not only on his team but also on the broader rugby league landscape.
“I’m excited to extend my journey with the Panthers,” Cleary said in a statement. “This club has been my home since I was a kid, and I’m incredibly grateful to be a part of the team’s ongoing success. I’ve always wanted to be here long-term, and this deal reflects the mutual trust and respect I have with the club, the coaching staff, and my teammates.”
The contract extension has been met with widespread praise from both the Penrith faithful and rugby league experts, with many highlighting Cleary’s work ethic, skill, and consistency over the years. His kicking game, playmaking vision, and ability to control the tempo of a match have made him one of the most formidable halfbacks in the world. Beyond his technical skills, Cleary is also regarded as a leader who inspires those around him, playing a key role in Penrith’s dominance in the NRL.
Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary, Nathan’s father, expressed his excitement over the extension, stating, “Nathan’s decision to stay with the Panthers is a massive win for the club. His commitment to the team, both on and off the field, has been second to none. We’re thrilled to have him as the centerpiece of our future, and his leadership will continue to guide the club in the years ahead.”
The extension comes at a time when the NRL landscape is undergoing significant changes, with various clubs looking to build strong foundations for long-term success. Cleary’s decision to remain with the Panthers signals stability for the team, ensuring they will remain competitive for years to come. The Panthers are now positioned to continue their era of dominance, with Cleary at the helm as their star playmaker and leader.
Cleary’s contract extension also sends a message to the NRL that Penrith is committed to maintaining its status as a powerhouse in Australian rugby league. The club has built a winning culture, and with Cleary locked in for another three years, they are poised to challenge for more premierships in the coming seasons.
Fans of the Panthers are celebrating the announcement, knowing that Cleary’s talent, leadership, and drive will continue to propel the team toward greater heights. The new contract not only secures a key player but also ensures that Penrith’s title aspirations remain firmly intact as they enter the next phase of their rugby league journey.
