Brisbane Broncos prop Payne Haas has officially committed his international future to Samoa, ending speculation that he might return to the Australian Kangaroos for the 2026 World Cup. The 26-year-old, who has Samoan heritage, stated he remains fully dedicated to the Toa Samoa program to honor his family roots and team commitments.
Haas Rejects Kangaroos Return
Payne Haas has ended speculation regarding his international allegiances, confirming he will not return to the Australian national team. Despite reports suggesting the Brisbane forward might consider a switch back to the Kangaroos for the 2026 tournament, Haas described the prospect as impossible.
“I made my decision last year to move to Samoa from Australia,” Haas said. “The kind of person I am, I wouldn’t back flip on them. I want to represent my mum, my grandmother and my granddad as well and there is no way in hell that I would.”
Building a Pacific Powerhouse
Since switching from Australia—where he played four Tests—Haas helped lead Samoa to the Pacific Cup final, including a 34-6 victory over Tonga.
Samoa’s roster for the upcoming World Cup features significant talent, including Jarome Luai, Brian To’o, and Stephen Crichton. The forward pack is bolstered by experienced players such as Junior Paulo, Jaydn Su’A, and Francis Molo. According to Haas, this group has the potential to outperform their 2022 World Cup campaign, where they finished as runners-up to Australia.
Did you know?
Payne Haas has been named the Brisbane Broncos’ player of the year six times, cementing his status as one of the club’s most decorated players of the last decade.
The Path to the 2026 World Cup
Samoa has been drawn into a competitive pool alongside France, Papua New Guinea, and Tonga for the 10-team tournament. The event is scheduled to be hosted across Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea in October and November. For Haas, the tournament represents a “final frontier” in his career, offering a chance to elevate Pacific rugby league on the global stage.
While his international focus remains on Samoa, Haas is currently managing his club obligations. After a dominant performance in the State of Origin decider for New South Wales, the prop is turning his attention to the Brisbane Broncos’ remaining games. Following a premiership win with Brisbane last year, Haas is set to join the South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Payne Haas still playing for Australia?
No. Haas played four Tests for Australia but committed to Toa Samoa during last year’s Pacific Championships. - Who is in the Samoa forward pack for the World Cup?
The pack includes Payne Haas, Francis Molo, Jaydn Su’A, Simi Sasagi, Junior Paulo, and Terrell May. - Where will the 2026 World Cup be held?
The tournament will be hosted by Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. - When does Payne Haas join South Sydney?
Haas is scheduled to join the South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2025.
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