Cleary set to leave Panthers when NRL contract finishes
Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has confirmed he will step down at the end of the 2027 NRL season, ending a historic tenure that delivered four straight premierships and transformed the club into the dominant force of the modern era.
Cleary made the announcement during a 2pm press conference on Wednesday, confirming he will honour the remainder of his contract before walking away from the role. The veteran coach said he remains uncertain about what comes next beyond coaching.
“I feel really strongly this is the right time for me to step aside,” the four time NRL premiership coach said.
“What am I gonna do? I’ve been a player and coach for over 30 years. Definitely looking to branch out use my skills and knowledge in other areas.
“This is not a time for thank yous or tributes, we still have 18 months in the saddle.”
The decision immediately places the spotlight on the future of superstar son Nathan Cleary, who can test the open market from November 1 and is expected to command some of the richest offers in NRL history.
Penrith is also fighting to retain several premiership stars including Liam Martin, Brian To’o and Isaah Yeo as the club prepares for life after its most successful coach.
Assistant coach Peter Wallace is reportedly being considered as part of a long-term succession plan at the Panthers.
The Cleary bombshell comes just weeks after Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy revealed he was suffering from a neurodegenerative disorder, with his future beyond this season now unclear.
There are currently no odds at Aussie betting sites on who will replace Cleary as the Panthers coach beyond 2027.
