R360 OFFER HAAS $3 MILLION UPFRONT
Broncos star Payne Haas could be tempted into a bombshell move to rebel rugby competition R360 by the potential guarantee of a $3 million upfront payment.
Haas is currently holidaying in Fiji with family and contemplating his playing future amid huge interest from the aspiring global rugby concept.
With the NRL salary cap hanging over them, the Broncos cannot come close to competing with the reported money on offer for Haas from R360.
There have been suggestions Haas could earn around US$2 million annually by committing to R360 from 2027.
However, with doubts around the commercial and financial viability of the concept, Haas could seek an upfront guarantee to commit to the competition.
That would see Haas paid a season’s salary in full, circa $3 million, before he has laced up a boot in R360.
Even if the competition folded, Haas would have the money secured.
Will Haas make the jump to R360. Picture: NRL Images
Will Haas make the jump to R360. Picture: NRL Images
The stumbling block in that approach would be the NRL’s willingness to welcome Haas back into the code if he wants to return.
The NRL and ARLC chairman Peter V’landys have touted 10-year bans for R360 defectors, but whether the game follows through on those threats remains to be seen.
Former Broncos coach Wayne Bennett said he hoped Haas wasn’t lost to the NRL.
“I absolutely bet the 10-year ban is a deterrent,” Bennett said.
“I have no doubt it will be. We’ll see what Payne does, it’s his decision, I hope he stays but it’s up to him.
“I don’t think it’s a threat. Peter V’landys has handled it really well, his comments have been strong, his leadership has been great, everyone in the game knows where they stand now.”
The Broncos are no clearer about where Haas’ future lies when he comes off-contract at the end of 2026.
They have made him a bumper three-year contract extension offer, worth about $3.5 million, and are awaiting a response.
Broncos star Payne Haas could be tempted into a bombshell move to rebel rugby competition R360 by the potential guarantee of a $3 million upfront payment.
Haas is currently holidaying in Fiji with family and contemplating his playing future amid huge interest from the aspiring global rugby concept.
With the NRL salary cap hanging over them, the Broncos cannot come close to competing with the reported money on offer for Haas from R360.
There have been suggestions Haas could earn around US$2 million annually by committing to R360 from 2027.
However, with doubts around the commercial and financial viability of the concept, Haas could seek an upfront guarantee to commit to the competition.
That would see Haas paid a season’s salary in full, circa $3 million, before he has laced up a boot in R360.
Even if the competition folded, Haas would have the money secured.
Will Haas make the jump to R360. Picture: NRL Images
Will Haas make the jump to R360. Picture: NRL Images
The stumbling block in that approach would be the NRL’s willingness to welcome Haas back into the code if he wants to return.
The NRL and ARLC chairman Peter V’landys have touted 10-year bans for R360 defectors, but whether the game follows through on those threats remains to be seen.
Former Broncos coach Wayne Bennett said he hoped Haas wasn’t lost to the NRL.
“I absolutely bet the 10-year ban is a deterrent,” Bennett said.
“I have no doubt it will be. We’ll see what Payne does, it’s his decision, I hope he stays but it’s up to him.
“I don’t think it’s a threat. Peter V’landys has handled it really well, his comments have been strong, his leadership has been great, everyone in the game knows where they stand now.”
The Broncos are no clearer about where Haas’ future lies when he comes off-contract at the end of 2026.
They have made him a bumper three-year contract extension offer, worth about $3.5 million, and are awaiting a response.

