The revelation behind William Warbrick's surprising exit from the Storm has come to light, and it isn't related to finances.
Sources indicate that homesickness is the main factor behind his impending move to the New Zealand Warriors, effective from the beginning of 2027.
According to Wide World of Sports' The Mole, Warbrick's desire to return to his roots is a significant motivator, with family members encouraging him to leave Australia.
Warbrick has emerged as a standout talent for the Storm in recent years, making the transition from Rugby Sevens to Rugby League.
Initially, he spent his first year in Australia with the Sunshine Coast Falcons in the QLD Cup but now ranks as a key player for Craig Bellamy's NRL team.
Despite missing substantial time in 2025 due to ongoing concussion issues, he has solidified his position as a starter over the last two seasons.
Even though Warbrick is under contract with the Storm until the conclusion of 2026, speculation suggested he might extend his stay, especially given the departures of Tyran Wishart and Nick Meaney to the Perth Bears.
However, recent reports indicate a deal with the Warriors for 2027-a multi-year contract that is expected to offer a financial upgrade-is nearly finalized.
This comes at a pivotal moment for the Warriors, who currently have an overabundance of outside backs, but could see fewer as both Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak are out of contract at season's end.
Tuivasa-Sheck, at 32, has previously contemplated a shift to R360, while Watene-Zelezniak, now 30, has a mutual option that needs to be exercised for him to remain with the club.