Brisbane Broncos standout Payne Haas has officially declared his intention to represent Samoa in the upcoming Rugby League World Cup, effectively putting to rest any rumors of a possible change of heart.
Last year, Haas made headlines by opting to play for Samoa rather than Australia during the 2025 Pacific Championships.
While Australia had hoped that Haas's decision might be reversed, he has firmly stated to AAP that he will not be donning the Australian colors later this year.
"I made my decision last year to move to Samoa from Australia," Haas conveyed to the media.
"The kind of person I am, I wouldn't back flip on them. I want to represent my mum, my grandmother and my granddad as well and there is no way in hell that I would (back flip)."
This commitment leaves Australia without one of the top props in the sport and is a significant boost to Samoa's prospects in the tournament.
The island nation reached the finals of the previous World Cup in England, where they faced Australia, and they aim to build on that strong performance in the 2026 competition.
Haas leads a talented squad that includes players like Brian To'o and Jarome Luai. Additionally, forwards such as Tino Fa'asuamaleaui and Jeremiah Nanai remain undecided about their allegiance, while seasoned players like Stephen Crichton, Murray Taulagi, Jaydn Su'a, and Josh Papalii are expected to join him in representing Samoa.