Payne Haas Signs for South Sydney – Four Pointer News
- Payne Haas has signed a three-year deal with South Sydney Rabbitohs starting from the 2027 season.
- Brisbane Broncos were left stunned by the superstar prop's decision to leave Red Hill.
- Wayne Bennett's influence and David Fifita's recruitment efforts played key roles in securing Haas.
- The signed contract has been lodged with the NRL but remains subject to a 10-day cooling-off period.
Broncos Blindsided by Haas Departure
The Brisbane Broncos were left reeling after their star prop forward confirmed his departure to join the Rabbitohs.
The club had remained confident about retaining Haas throughout the off-season, making this development particularly stunning for the Red Hill faithful.
Brisbane released a brief statement confirming the development, acknowledging that a signed contract had been lodged with the NRL.
The club indicated they would make no further comment until the standard 10-day cooling-off period expires, though the deal appears all but certain to proceed.
The timing couldn't be more dramatic, with Haas informing teammates of his decision just as the squad prepares for their World Club Challenge clash against Hull KR in England.
Reports suggest the prop forward broke the news to his Brisbane teammates before the public announcement.
Bennett Factor Proves Decisive
Wayne Bennett's influence appears to have been instrumental in securing Payne Haas for South Sydney.
The veteran coach previously worked with Haas during his tenure at Brisbane, establishing a relationship that proved crucial in this recruitment coup.
South Sydney's recruitment drive gained significant momentum through the involvement of current stars David Fifita and Latrell Mitchell, who played key roles in convincing Haas to make the switch.
The Rabbitohs confirmed they have lodged a signed contract covering the 2027, 2028 and 2029 seasons.
R360 Delay Changes Landscape
The delayed launch of the rebel R360 competition significantly altered the transfer landscape surrounding Haas.
Initial speculation suggested the prop forward might be tempted by lucrative offers to switch codes, but R360's postponement by two years effectively removed that option.
Brisbane had appeared well-positioned to retain their star following these developments, with reports earlier suggesting Haas had agreed to a one-year extension for 2027.
Coach Michael Maguire had publicly expressed confidence about keeping the forward long-term, making this defection even more surprising.
Rabbitohs Land Premium Forward
For South Sydney, securing Payne Haas represents one of the most significant player acquisitions in recent club history.
Widely regarded as the game's premier prop forward, Haas brings elite-level experience and leadership to Bennett's forward pack.
The Rabbitohs have adopted a cautious approach to commenting publicly, stating they will remain silent until the cooling-off period concludes.
However, the recruitment represents a clear statement of intent from a club determined to return to premiership contention.
This transfer leaves Brisbane with a substantial void in their forward pack while signalling an exciting new chapter for South Sydney's title aspirations.