Luai parts way with Tigers to pursue Chiefs dream

The Wests Tigers’ long-term rebuilding plans have been dealt a significant blow after marquee star Jarome Luai officially announced to exit the club at the end of the 2027 season.

In a dual announcement on Wednesday, the Tigers confirmed that while the representative five-eighth has activated a contract clause to remain at Concord for 2027, he has formally advised the board he will be seeking a new opportunity from 2028 onwards.

The news brings a definitive expiration date to the most influential signing in the joint-venture's recent history. Since arriving from the Penrith Panthers in 2025, the Samoan international has been the primary architect of the club’s rise from the bottom of the ladder, transforming the Tigers into a genuine competitive force.

While the Tigers have secured Luai’s services for the next 18 months, the decision to leave suggests the superstar is seeking one final major career move to the NRL's 19th franchise in PNG Chiefs. Head coach Benji Marshall, who has shared a close bond with the Samoa International since his arrival, defended the playmaker’s decision to look elsewhere.

"Jarome’s a quality human being who is widely respected across our club," Marshall said. "I know how difficult this has been for him, but he’s put his family first and we respect his decision."

The coach emphasized that despite the looming departure, Luai remains integral to the club's immediate premiership ambitions.

The announcement comes as a blow to Tigers fans who had hoped Luai would see out his career at the club. However, Interim CEO Shaun Mielekamp praised the 29-year-old for his transparency, saying that the early notice allows the club to begin long-term succession planning.

"I’ve really got to credit Jarome for how he’s handled this process," Mielekamp said. "He’s been exceptional since his arrival... we wish him and his family all the best in their eventual next chapter."

The Tigers now find themselves in a high-stakes race against time. With Luai’s departure set for 2028, the club has a finite window to capitalize on the prime years of one of the game’s elite pivots.

The focus now shifts to who will partner Luai in the halves for his final seasons at Concord, and more importantly, who the Tigers will target with the significant salary cap space his exit will create in 2028.