DONE DEAL: Ivan Cleary, the coach of the Penrith Panthers, has finally agreed to a new contract with the Wests Tigers to become the team’s head coach starting in the 2025 NRL season.

In a surprising turn of events, Ivan Cleary, the esteemed coach who led the Penrith Panthers to four consecutive NRL premierships from 2021 to 2024, has agreed to a new contract with the Wests Tigers. He is set to take over as the team’s head coach starting in the 2025 NRL season.

Cleary’s coaching journey has been marked by significant achievements and notable transitions. He initially coached the Wests Tigers from 2017 to 2018 before departing to rejoin the Panthers in 2019. His return to Penrith proved to be a masterstroke, culminating in an unprecedented four consecutive premierships, solidifying his reputation as one of the NRL’s premier coaches.

The decision to return to the Wests Tigers comes as a surprise to many, especially considering Cleary’s previous long-term commitment to the Panthers. In April 2022, both Ivan and his son, Nathan Cleary, had extended their contracts with Penrith until the end of the 2027 season. citeturn0search5

The Wests Tigers have faced challenges in recent seasons, struggling to make a significant impact in the league. Cleary’s return is anticipated to bring a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to the club. His previous tenure with the Tigers was marked by efforts to rebuild and instill a competitive spirit within the team.

This coaching change coincides with the Tigers’ recent acquisition of Jarome Luai, a key playmaker from the Panthers. Luai, who played an instrumental role in Penrith’s recent successes, has expressed his desire to step out of Nathan Cleary’s shadow and establish himself as a leading playmaker. His move to the Tigers on a five-year deal is seen as a significant boost to the club’s roster. citeturn0news10

The reunion of Cleary and Luai at the Wests Tigers is expected to be a focal point of the 2025 NRL season. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Cleary’s coaching philosophy and Luai’s dynamic playmaking abilities will influence the Tigers’ performance. The duo’s prior success at Penrith provides a foundation of optimism for the Tigers’ future prospects.

As the 2025 season approaches, the NRL community will be closely monitoring the developments at the Wests Tigers. Ivan Cleary’s return, coupled with key player acquisitions, signals a new chapter for the club, one that holds the promise of revitalization and competitive resurgence.