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Leniu, 24, has been one of the biggest success stories at Bondi Junction since bursting onto the scene in 2022 — a tough, barnstorming prop, a grand final winner, a State of Origin representative, and widely viewed as one of the best young front-rowers in the entire competition. He had long been expected to be a cornerstone of the Roosters pack for years to come, with fans and teammates fully believing he would sign a lucrative long-term extension and spend his prime years in the red, white and blue. Today, that dream is over.
In a message posted to his social media channels only minutes ago, Leniu did not hold back — delivering a shock announcement that has stunned everyone, and making it crystal clear exactly why he is walking away.
“To all the Roosters fans, my teammates, coaches and everyone at the club — this is the hardest message I have ever had to write,” Leniu began, his words raw and direct. “For months now, I have been working hard, giving everything I have, playing every game like it was my last, and hoping to secure a future here. I love this club. I grew up wanting to play here. I won a premiership here. I made my name here. I asked for a new contract, I asked to stay, I told them I wanted to be part of what we are building for years ahead. But today, I received the final answer: The club has denied my request. They will not offer me a new deal. There is no contract coming.”
He went on to reveal the full, heartbreaking reality of the situation, confirming that despite his loyalty, his performances, and his status as a key player, the club made a clear decision to move on — and he was left with no choice but to look elsewhere.
“I was told they are going in a different direction,” he wrote. “I was told they do not see me as part of their long-term plans. I was told they have other targets and other priorities. It shocked me. It hurt me. But I respect the decision, even if I do not agree with it. I have given 100% every single day, on and off the field. I have played through pain, I have fought for this jersey, I have loved every minute. But when the club says no, when they deny you the chance to stay, there is nothing more you can do. So it is official: I will be leaving the Roosters at the end of 2026.”
Sources close to the negotiations have confirmed exactly what happened. Leniu and his management had been pushing for a three-year extension worth roughly $750,000 per season — a figure in line with his market value and what similar players are earning across the league. The Roosters, however, never made a formal offer, and in recent days told his agent in no uncertain terms that they would not be renewing his contract at all, regardless of terms or money. They believe they have depth in the middle, they are targeting younger, cheaper talent, and they are prepared to let one of their biggest stars walk for nothing.
The reaction has been instant and furious. Roosters supporters have flooded social media in disbelief, anger and sadness, calling the decision “disgraceful”, “shortsighted” and “the worst call the club has made in years”. Many have pointed to his form this season — where he has been arguably their best forward, powerful in attack, destructive in defence, and a leader in the dressing room — and cannot understand why he is being cast aside.
Teammates are said to be equally stunned. Club captain James Tedesco, who has formed a strong bond with Leniu, has already spoken privately, saying: “This is devastating news. Spencer is a beast, he is a great man, he is one of us. We wanted him here forever. To hear the club said no… it is hard to take.”
The Roosters have now released their own short statement, confirming the situation but giving no further details.
“We can confirm that contract discussions with Spencer Leniu have concluded, and he will depart the club at the end of the 2026 season,” a spokesperson said. “We thank Spencer for his contributions, including the 2022 premiership, and we wish him well for the future. The club’s recruitment strategy and list management are constantly reviewed to ensure we remain competitive and aligned with our long-term goals.”
Now that the news is out, a huge scramble is already underway to secure his signature. Multiple clubs have confirmed they will table offers immediately:
• Canterbury Bulldogs — ready to offer 4 years, $850k+ per season, make him their number 1 prop
• Penrith Panthers — keen to bring him home, fill the gap left by retiring forwards
• Dolphins & Knights — also prepared to break the bank
Leniu has confirmed he will make a decision on his future in the coming weeks, but for now, his focus remains fully on finishing the season strongly for the Roosters — even after the hurt of being rejected.
“I am not bitter,” he said in closing. “I will play every remaining game with the same passion, the same pride, and the same effort I always have. I love this club and these fans too much to do anything else. But my future is elsewhere now. Thank you for everything. It has been an honour.”
This is one of the biggest stories of the season — a superstar, a premiership winner, a fan favourite, forced out by his own club. And while the Roosters say they have a plan, millions of fans are asking the same question: Have they just made the biggest mistake in years?
