Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Ivan Cleary representative coaching plans have become a major talking point after the Penrith Panthers coach confirmed he would consider a role at international or State of Origin level once he leaves the club.
Cleary, who led Penrith to four straight National Rugby League premierships from 2021 to 2024, will step down at the end of next season and has ruled out coaching another club side.
The decision follows another major rugby league discussion, with Ivan Cleary’s Panthers exit viewed as unlike anything the sport has seen, while official competition updates are available on the National Rugby League website.
Cleary Open to Rep Role
“It's time. I’m not getting any younger and I wanted to use the skills I have in different areas," Cleary said.
“I still love coaching, but I have plenty of time to scratch that itch.
“I have no interest in coaching another NRL club. If someone thought I was worthy of a rep job, I’d consider that.”
Cleary has representative experience after working with New Zealand coach Stephen Kearney at the 2013 World Cup and the 2014 Four Nations, which the Kiwis won.
Panthers Legacy Secure
Cleary also worked as a game day assistant to Brad Fittler with the New South Wales Blues in 2023.
"It is definitely something that I have started thinking about the past 12 months, which I never had before," he said.
The 53-year-old will remain at Penrith for the rest of the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
He is then expected to stay involved with the Panthers in an advisory role focused on culture and leadership.
Historic Run Nears Its End
Cleary returned to Penrith in 2019 after earlier coaching the New Zealand Warriors, Penrith and Wests Tigers.
His second Panthers stint delivered five straight grand finals, including the four-title run that followed the 2020 loss to Melbourne Storm.
“I’ve been a player or a coach for 35 years,” Cleary said.
