‘Not Over Yet’: Panthers Insist Premiership Reign Is Only on Pause
The Penrith Panthers have made it clear — their era of dominance in the NRL is far from over. Despite falling short in their bid for a historic fourth consecutive premiership, coach Ivan Cleary and his squad remain confident that the dynasty they’ve built is merely taking a brief pause, not coming to an end.
After a heartbreaking 16–14 preliminary final loss to the Brisbane Broncos, emotions ran high, but the message from the Panthers camp was one of resilience and renewal. Cleary, speaking to club media, praised his players’ fight and hunger, insisting the team still has plenty left in the tank.
“We’ve had an incredible run, and while this one hurts, it doesn’t signal the end,” Cleary said. “We’ve built something special here — a culture, a belief — and that doesn’t disappear after one defeat.”
The Panthers have been the benchmark of the NRL over the past few years, claiming three straight titles (2021–2023) and appearing in five consecutive grand finals. Their system, driven by youth development and consistency, has been the foundation of their success.
While some key players are expected to depart at season’s end, Penrith remains confident in its next generation. Rising talents like Lindsay Smith, Sunia Turuva, and Jack Cole are tipped to play bigger roles in 2026, as the Panthers look to refresh their lineup without losing their trademark intensity.
Captain Nathan Cleary echoed his coach’s sentiments, saying the group is already looking ahead.
“We’ll learn from this and come back stronger. The hunger hasn’t gone — if anything, it’s grown,” Cleary said.
The dynasty may have been halted for now, but if the Panthers’ determination is any indication, the NRL should prepare for another Penrith resurgence sooner rather than later.
