It’s been rugby league’s worst kept secret for weeks, but now it’s official: superstar Jarome Luai will become a Wests Tiger in 2025.
In a media release issued just after 12 noon today, accompanied by the photoshopped image (above) of the star five eighth in the Wests Tigers colours, the club said they were “delighted’’ to announce the signing of Luai on a five-year deal.
The three-time premiership-winning playmaker will join the club at the end of next season.
Luai has played 107 games for the Panthers over six seasons, making his NRL debut in 2018.
The 26-year-old has helped Penrith to three consecutive grand final triumphs over the past three years, during which time he made seven State of Origin appearances for NSW.
When Luai makes the move to Wests Tigers at the end of next season, he will be reunited with a few of his former Panthers’ teammates, such as hooker Api Koroisau, Brent Naden and Charlie Staines.
Wests Tigers head coach Benji Marshall believes the addition of Luai will be great for the club.
“We are super excited to announce the signing of Jarome for the 2025 season on a five-year deal,” Marshall said.
“His experience as a genuine premiership-winning playmaker will be great for us and the future of our club.
“We love the way Jarome plays his footy and even better, he is a great person.
“We very much look forward to welcoming Jarome and his family to our club in 2025, but right now, season 2024 is our focus.”
Luai is excited about joining Wests Tigers but wants to focus on his final season at the Panthers.
