“The hardest choice of my life”: Luai officially announces the $6 million Tigers move as the Panthers provide a significant response
Jarome Luai has officially announced that he would sign a five-year contract with the Wests Tigers, ending months of speculation over his future.
Following reports that the Panthers waived the 10-day cooling-off period, the Penrith star made the announcement during a press conference held at Darling Harbour.
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“Probably the toughest decision of my career and probably life so far,” according to Luai, was the call to quit the Panthers.
“Over the past few months, it’s definitely received a lot more attention than we would have liked,” he continued.
“This was done to clear the air and get everything in order for my teammates and I to have a respectful and courteous year ahead of us in 2024.
“I will therefore be moving to the Wests Tigers in 2025 to pursue my profession without further ado.
The apparent explanation is that it was a fantastic chance for me to support and produce for both my family and myself.
We’ve talked about the future, what Benji (Marshall) sees in me, and moving forward. We’ve had a terrific relationship. I’m very happy about it.
Though neither the player nor the team have verified it, Luai’s five-year contract with the Tigers is reportedly for an incredible $6 million.
At the press conference, Luai stated that the opportunity to support his family played a significant role in his choice, but he also acknowledged that the opportunity to lead a side as a marquee player and leave the shadow of Penrith’s several superstars inspired him.
Leading a team is inspiring, according to Luai. “I believe that criticism of me inspires me. I’ve always had the upper hand and a grudge against others.
“He’s always been a born leader and he’s really excited about the opportunity to lead a team and I think it’s up to him to prove it to all those doubters,” continued Luai’s father Martin.
In front of his first season leading the Wests Tigers in the NRL, the agreement marks a significant victory for head coach Marshall.
Even though he will have to wait a year, Marshall is eager to start working with his highly valued hire.
Marshall stated in a statement, “His experience as a genuine premiership-winning playmaker will be great for us and the future of our club.”
“Jarome is a terrific guy and we adore the way he plays football.
“Season 2024 is our priority right now, but we very much look forward to welcoming Jarome and his family to our club in 2025.”
Luai’s official decision was expedited by the Panthers’ choice to forego the 10-day cooling-off period.
After a player receives an offer from another club that they would be prepared to take, they have 10 days to consider their options under the new contracting provisions in the CBA.
This provides the player’s previous team the opportunity to make a counter offer, should they so choose. The athlete has the ability to modify his mind throughout those ten days if he so chooses.
On Tuesday, nevertheless, the Sydney Morning Herald revealed that the Panthers had forfeited their right to the cooling-off period in exchange for a $2.5 million, three-year contract.
Luai may depart the team early, as there had been some conjecture. However, the Panthers responded to that query in a statement on Wednesday afternoon.
The statement read, “Penrith Panthers can confirm that Jarome Luai will leave the club at the end of the 2024 season.”
“Luai has communicated to Panthers personnel and players his plan to leave the team after the 2024 season, and the team has waived the 10-day cooling-off period.”
“As previously stated in public, the club feels that Jarome has earned the right to look into the open market as a three-time Premiership player and international representative. While the club is dissatisfied with the outcome, it respects Jarome’s decision.
Matt Cameron, the CEO of the Panthers, stated that the salary cap constraints drove their decision.
The CEO of Panthers Rugby League stated, “We acknowledge that the situation is compounded by salary cap capacity due to the club’s recent success.”
“Jarome’s recovery from the shoulder surgery he had in October is ongoing, and the club’s top priority is getting him back in time for the new season.”
