Brisbane Broncos prop forward Payne Haas has strongly dismissed rumours suggesting a falling out with head coach Michael Maguire prompted his decision to depart the club at the conclusion of the 2026 NRL season. The 26-year-old, instead, emphasised that his primary motivation for joining the South Sydney Rabbitohs on a three-year contract is to be closer to his family, seeking a new beginning in Sydney.
Speculation Over Rift Firmly Rejected
In a video released on the Broncos' official website, Haas expressed disbelief at the widespread conjecture linking his exit to tensions with Maguire, often referred to as 'Madge'. "I can't believe the stuff with 'Madge,'" Haas stated. "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."
Haas highlighted their successful working relationship, noting their collaboration in securing a premiership for the Broncos and a State of Origin series victory for New South Wales in 2024. "There's nothing wrong with us, we just won a premiership together. We won a State of Origin together," he added. "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."
Family Considerations Take Precedence
The decision follows Haas's recent personal challenges, including both parents being incarcerated and his assumption of custody for his two teenage brothers. Earlier this week, he also changed his name to Hakeem Haas in honour of his Muslim faith. Haas described the choice to leave Brisbane as difficult, rooted in familial leadership. "The main factor for me was family. Nothing else, to be honest," he explained. "I felt being a leader for my family is probably the best move for us to have a change and a fresh new start."
He cited the support network in Sydney, including his agent Ahmad Merhi, whom he regards as a second father, as crucial for his siblings, daughter, and son. "I need those kind of people around me, especially now for my siblings and my daughter and for my son as well," Haas said. "I feel like 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."
Contract Details and Club Reactions
Haas is currently in a 10-day cooling-off period, though the Broncos have waived this, allowing the move to proceed. He is set to earn approximately $3.6 million over three years with the Rabbitohs, with his agent noting an eagerness to work under legendary coach Wayne Bennett, who had previously attempted to recruit him.
Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy refuted claims that the club low-balled Haas in contract negotiations, labelling such talk as "total and utter BS." Donaghy stated, "We did everything we could to convince Payne that Brisbane was the best place for him. We wanted Payne to stay and at no stage was he going backwards [with Brisbane’s contract offer]. But ultimately that’s the decision he needs to make, and there were factors well outside of our control which has ultimately resulted in him wanting to relocate his family to Sydney."
Donaghy expressed disappointment but respect for Haas's choice, confirming the player is not changing his mind despite efforts from teammates, including retiring captain Adam Reynolds, to persuade him otherwise. "Payne Haas is one of the greatest players we’ve seen at the club and he’s been wonderful for us and I think the club’s been wonderful for him," Donaghy said. He also welcomed Haas's clarification on the Maguire rumours, noting the coach's success and Haas's desire for a new challenge.
Commitment to Broncos Until 2026
Haas, who has made 142 appearances for the Broncos and won the Dally M prop of the year award five times, reaffirmed his dedication to the team for the remainder of his contract. "For the 2026 season I'm ready to go all in for the boys, especially my brothers here, the coaching staff and especially the fans," he declared. "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."
As Haas travels with the Broncos to the UK for the World Club Challenge against Hull KR on February 19, his focus remains on delivering consecutive premiership titles before embarking on his new journey with South Sydney.
