The Penrith Panthers’ remarkable run of dominance in the NRL has finally hit a roadblock, with their hopes of a historic four-peat dashed in 2025. After five consecutive grand final appearances and three premierships in a row (2021-2023), Penrith’s dream of making it four straight titles came to an end. But according to head coach Ivan Cleary, the dynasty may be dented — it’s far from done.
The Panthers have been the benchmark of the NRL for half a decade, redefining consistency, composure, and youth development. Their ability to rebuild on the fly, even after losing key players to rival clubs, was a hallmark of their golden era. But in 2025, that aura of invincibility wavered as injuries, representative fatigue, and a hungrier pack of challengers closed the gap.
Still, Cleary remained defiant in the wake of their finals exit.
“Everyone’s saying it’s over — it’s not over,” Cleary said. “We’ve been at the top for a long time. That doesn’t just disappear. The culture, the standards, the hunger — it’s still in that dressing room.”
And he has every reason to believe so.
Penrith’s run from 2020 to 2024 was one of the greatest in rugby league history. They played in five straight grand finals, winning three consecutively and losing two by narrow margins — a feat unmatched in the modern era. While 2025 may mark the end of their premiership streak, it’s also a chance to recalibrate.
What separated the Panthers during their dominant period wasn’t just their star players like Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, and Dylan Edwards, but their systems, coaching stability, and junior development. That infrastructure remains intact. Their NSW Cup and Jersey Flegg sides continue to produce first-grade-ready talent, and the club’s ability to identify and nurture youth ensures they’re never starting from scratch.
There are challenges ahead, no doubt. Rival teams are circling. Brisbane, South Sydney, and the Warriors have emerged as serious threats, while younger clubs like the Dolphins are growing stronger each season. The competition is catching up.
Moreover, sustaining success over this many seasons carries its own weight. Fatigue, injuries, and the pressure of expectation have begun to take their toll. But Cleary sees the setback not as a sign of the end, but a catalyst for reinvention.
“It’s not realistic to win every year. What matters is how you respond when it doesn’t go your way,” he said. “I back this group to bounce back. That’s what champions do.”
Penrith fans may feel the sting of a missed opportunity in 2025, but history will remember this Panthers side as one of the greatest ever. Whether their premiership window is closing or simply pausing remains to be seen — but if Ivan Cleary’s words are anything to go by, Penrith won’t be fading quietly.
They’ve built a dynasty — and dynasties don’t disappear overnight.
