Brisbane Broncos star Payne Haas reveals reasons for his move to South Sydney Rabbitohs
Speculation has circulated about Bennett’s future, given that his contract is due to expire in 2027, and Haas confirmed that his three-year deal will remain fixed for two years, with the option in his favor to explore options beyond that.
“I’ve got two years there and a one-year player option, so I can take it that way,” Haas said with a laugh when asked if his future at the Rabbitohs depended on Bennett.
“My brother [Chace] He was quadriplegic and disabled and had a disabled son, and that’s how we connected. “Our relationship started with that, and he’s someone I trust.”
Throughout his NRL career, Haas’ name has never been far from the headlines.
His mother, Joan Taufua, remains in prison following a car crash that killed three people, while his father, Gregor, was arrested in the Philippines for alleged drug crimes in Indonesia. This month, a judge reportedly ordered Gregor’s immediate release.
Haas said he spoke to his family recently and explained how he cares for his entire family, given their complex situation.
Xavier Willison will fill Haas’ vacant position.Credit: Getty Images
“My partner and I are the leaders of our family and we want to protect them and let them live a good life. There’s a lot of noise out there about our family, but as long as everything is okay on the inside then we’re good,” Haas said.
“I’ve talked to my mom and dad a few times and they’re in good spirits, so as long as they’re like that, everything’s fine. There’s a few things going on in the Philippines.” [with his father]But God willing, we’ll see what happens and I hope he gets over it.”
While Haas stressed his focus is on finishing his time at the Broncos on good terms, he revealed the club will be in “safe hands” given the rise of Kiwi prop Xavier Willison and the recruitment of potential Warriors enforcer Mitch Barnett.
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The New Zealand team confirmed Barnett will be released on compassionate grounds at the end of 2026 to be closer to his family in Taree.
It would also open the door for Willison, who made his debut for New Zealand in last year’s Pacific Championship, to fulfill his pre-season promise to become a regular starter for the Broncos.
Willison, 23, made his breakthrough en route to the premiership last year and fellow Brisbane forward Jack Gosiewski believed he would be ready to take on Haas’ mantle.
“He’s a superstar, he’s still very young and I think he hasn’t fully developed his body yet. He has tremendous potential and I think he can be a really dangerous player when he’s fully grown in the next few years,” Gosiewski said.
“I believe he already is – big, strong, powerful and incredibly fit, so he has a huge future ahead of him.”
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