In a bombshell announcement that has left the rugby league world stunned, Nathan Cleary, the face of the Penrith Panthers and one of the NRL’s most elite playmakers, has officially confirmed he will depart the club at the end of the 2025 season.
The 27-year-old halfback and three-time premiership winner made the announcement this afternoon during a press conference at BlueBet Stadium, flanked by Panthers executives, teammates, and his father and head coach, Ivan Cleary.
“It’s been an incredible journey with the Panthers — one I’ll never forget,” Cleary said, visibly emotional. “But after long conversations with my family and management, I’ve decided that it’s time for a new chapter in 2026. This wasn’t an easy decision, but I believe it’s the right one for me and my growth as a player and a person.”
Cleary, who debuted with Penrith in 2016 and has since become one of the NRL’s most decorated players, did not disclose which club he will join next. However, speculation is already swirling that several high-profile clubs — both in the NRL and overseas — have tabled lucrative offers to secure the signature of one of the game’s most dominant playmakers.
Sources close to Cleary suggest that multiple Sydney-based clubs are in the mix, while others hint at a possible move to the English Super League or a cross-code switch to rugby union — a move that could see Cleary target international honours beyond rugby league.
The Penrith Panthers issued a statement shortly after the press conference:
“Nathan Cleary has been a cornerstone of this club’s success over the past decade. While we are saddened by his decision to move on, we respect his choice and will continue to support him throughout the 2025 season. He will forever be part of Panthers history.”
Cleary’s impact at Penrith has been nothing short of legendary. He led the club to an unprecedented three consecutive premierships in 2021, 2022, and 2023, earning multiple Dally M nominations, State of Origin honours for New South Wales, and wide recognition as one of the greatest halfbacks of his generation.
His leadership, game management, and clutch performances — particularly in finals matches — have earned him comparisons to the likes of Andrew Johns and Cooper Cronk.
NRL analyst Matty Johns commented on the significance of Cleary’s departure:
“This isn’t just any transfer — it’s one of the biggest shifts in modern rugby league. Nathan Cleary is a generational player. His decision to leave Penrith reshapes the future of the club and the league as a whole.”
Fans reacted to the announcement with a mix of heartbreak, gratitude, and shock. Many took to social media to thank Cleary for his service, while others speculated about his next destination. Hashtags like #ThankYouNathan, #Cleary2026, and #NewChapter began trending within minutes.
Cleary assured fans that his focus remains fully on finishing the 2025 season strongly with the Panthers.
“I still have unfinished business here. I want to give everything I have this year to help Penrith win another title. That will never change.”
As the NRL community processes this game-changing news, the question now turns to where Nathan Cleary will land in 2026 — and how the Panthers will rebuild in the absence of their long-time leader.
More updates to follow as this story develops.
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