Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Queensland coach Billy Slater has cast doubt over his long term future with the Maroons, revealing he will not sign another contract with the Queensland Rugby League ahead of the 2026 State of Origin series decider. Slater, whose current deal expires after Game III next Wednesday, said he remains committed to the role but suggested any future arrangement would be based on a handshake rather than a formal contract.
The comments come as speculation continues to grow about Slater's future, with many viewing him as a potential successor to Craig Bellamy at the Melbourne Storm.
Slater rules out another contract
Speaking on Monday, Slater was asked whether the upcoming State of Origin decider could be his final game as Queensland coach.
"I don't think so, but I don't know," Slater said.
"I won't be signing another contract. This is not a contract job for me."
Slater explained that his motivation for coaching Queensland extends beyond contractual commitments, saying the opportunity to help the Maroons represent the state remains his primary focus.
"I really enjoy helping this group of men go and inspire our people of Queensland."
"When that changes, my position will change. Or if someone in the QRL decides there's someone better for the job, I'm all for that as well."
Handshake agreement remains possible
Although Slater confirmed he will not sign a new contract, he indicated he could continue coaching Queensland under a less formal arrangement.
When asked whether a handshake agreement could keep him in the role, Slater confirmed that was a realistic possibility.
"Yep, pretty much. It might surprise you, but that's how it is," he said.
Slater signed a three year extension in 2023 covering the 2024 through 2026 State of Origin campaigns. That agreement expires following next week's deciding match.
He reiterated that his focus remains firmly on preparing Queensland for the biggest game of the series.
"Whilst I'm here, I really enjoy helping these guys prepare for a game of footy and to go out there and help them inspire the people of Queensland."
"That's what this team has given me when I was a kid. It gave me inspiration. Now we get the opportunity to go and give the rest of Queensland that inspiration."
Melbourne Storm links continue
Slater's comments are likely to fuel further speculation about his long term coaching future, particularly with Melbourne Storm.
The former Storm champion has frequently been identified as a leading candidate to eventually replace Bellamy, who has coached Melbourne since 2003.
Interest in Bellamy's succession plan increased earlier this year after the veteran coach revealed he had been diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disorder. While Bellamy has not confirmed when he intends to step away, there is no certainty he will remain in charge beyond the 2027 NRL season.
Despite the ongoing speculation, Slater has not publicly indicated that he intends to pursue a club coaching role.
Focus remains on Origin decider
Before any decisions about his coaching future are made, Slater's immediate priority is leading Queensland into the deciding match of the 2026 State of Origin series.
The Maroons are aiming to secure their fourth series victory in five years under Slater's leadership, continuing a highly successful tenure that has established Queensland as one of the dominant forces in the interstate contest.
Whether Slater remains in the role beyond the current series may ultimately depend on discussions with the Queensland Rugby League after the decider, but his latest comments suggest any future arrangement will be driven by commitment to the team rather than the security of a long term contract.
