South Sydney move to extend coach Wayne Bennett to at least 2028

South Sydney have moved to extend the contract of veteran coach Wayne Bennett until at least the end of the 2028 season.

Bennett, who is just seven months into a three-year stint, has been told the club wants to ensure he stays at the Rabbitohs for the rest of his career. The club will wait until the end of the season to begin formal negotiations.

Bennett has indicated to those close to him that he wants to continue working beyond his current contract, which expires at the end of the 2027 season.

He has already been floated as the potential inaugural coach of the Papua New Guinea franchise, which is set to enter the competition in 2028.

But the Rabbitohs, who have been impressed with how Bennett has galvanised the club since his return last summer, want him to stay in the cardinal and myrtle, believing he can lead them to a premiership over the next few years.

“Wayne and our staff have done a tremendous job in difficult circumstances this season,” South Sydney chief executive Blake Solly said.

“We can also understand why [Australian Rugby League Commission chairman] Peter V’landys and the commission are keen to have Wayne involved in the new club based out of Port Moresby.

“We will sit down with Wayne at the end of the season and talk about an extension. He is contracted until the end of the 2027 season. Hopefully, he wants to continue coaching in the NRL beyond that point – and with the Rabbitohs”.