Big Congrats: Nathan Cleary Signs Historic $785 Million Contract Extension with Penrith Panthers
In a groundbreaking move that has sent shockwaves through the NRL and beyond, Nathan Cleary, the star halfback of the Penrith Panthers, has signed a historic $785 million contract extension, ensuring he will remain with the club until the end of his career. The deal, one of the largest in rugby league history, cements Cleary’s status as the face of the Panthers and one of the most influential players in the NRL.
Cleary, who has been with the Panthers since his junior days, is widely regarded as one of the best playmakers in the game. His skills, leadership, and consistency have been pivotal in the club’s recent success, including their NRL premierships in 2021 and 2022. With this new contract, Cleary has firmly committed his future to the club, continuing a partnership that has brought unprecedented success to Penrith.
The contract extension, which will keep Cleary at Penrith for the foreseeable future, is worth a staggering $785 million—a figure that surpasses any previous contract in the history of Australian rugby league. The deal is seen as a statement of intent by the Panthers, who are determined to keep their core players intact as they continue to chase more championships and dominate the competition.
Cleary’s commitment to the Panthers also signals a broader trend in the NRL, where clubs are increasingly looking to secure their star players for the long term. This contract extension is not just a personal achievement for Cleary, but also a strategic move by Penrith to ensure their future success on the field. With Cleary at the helm, the Panthers are likely to remain one of the most formidable teams in the NRL for years to come.
“I’m incredibly proud to continue my journey with the Penrith Panthers,” said Cleary in a statement after the announcement. “This club has been my home since I was a kid, and it means a lot to me to be able to help lead us into the future. I’m excited for what’s ahead, and I’m grateful for the support of the fans, my teammates, and the entire club.”
Penrith Panthers CEO, Brian Fletcher, also expressed his excitement over the deal, emphasizing Cleary’s importance to the club both on and off the field. “Nathan is the heart and soul of this team. His leadership, skill, and work ethic are unmatched, and we are thrilled to have him locked in for the long term. This deal ensures that the Panthers will remain a force in the NRL for years to come.”
The $785 million deal is a game-changer not only for Penrith but for the entire NRL landscape. With this contract, Cleary joins an exclusive group of players who are redefining the financial landscape of rugby league. While the exact breakdown of the contract remains undisclosed, the figure represents a significant increase in player wages across the league, highlighting the growing financial power of top-tier NRL players.
Cleary’s new deal will also have a massive impact on the Panthers’ salary cap management. While keeping star players is always a challenge under the salary cap system, the Panthers have shown their ability to balance the books while retaining their best talent. With Cleary’s extension, Penrith will need to continue their astute recruitment strategy to ensure that the team remains competitive in the years ahead.
For Cleary, this contract extension is a testament to his incredible career and the trust that the Panthers have in his ability to lead the team to more glory. As the captain of the club, he has already cemented his place in the history books, and with this new contract, he is poised to lead Penrith to even greater heights.
Fans of the Panthers will be celebrating this monumental deal, knowing that their team is in safe hands with Cleary at the helm. The future of the Penrith Panthers looks brighter than ever, with Nathan Cleary continuing to lead the charge.
