By Alex Morrison | NRL Insider Weekly | May 27, 2025
In a stunning development that has rocked the NRL community, Penrith Panthers head coach Ivan Cleary has made bold claims in a candid interview released early this morning. Cleary, the architect behind the Panthers’ recent dynasty, revealed he felt “misused and sidelined” in key decisions during the turbulent 2025 season.
Speaking to NRL Insider Weekly, Cleary opened up for the first time about internal struggles within the Panthers’ leadership, pointing to what he called “a breakdown of trust” between coaching staff and club management.
“I wasn’t allowed to coach the way I know works. Certain decisions were taken out of my hands — recruitment, training schedules, even who played key minutes,” Cleary said. “After everything we’ve built here, it’s disheartening.”
Cleary, who led Penrith to four consecutive premierships from 2021 to 2024, acknowledged that while the team is currently undergoing a form slump — with a disappointing 1–5 start to the season — deeper structural issues are being overlooked.
Behind the Curtain
Sources close to the club suggest that tensions began mounting late in the 2024 season, despite their grand final success. Internal reports hint at clashes between Cleary and a newly appointed high-performance director, who allegedly had growing influence over team operations.
“There’s been a shift in power,” said one source familiar with the club’s inner workings. “Ivan was increasingly being treated more like a figurehead than a decision-maker.”
While Cleary stopped short of naming individuals, his frustration was evident.
“I’m not pointing fingers — but I’ll say this: when a coach is brought in for results and then second-guessed at every turn, something is broken.”
Player Reactions
Several veteran players have expressed support for Cleary, though none have officially commented on the matter. Captain Nathan Cleary, Ivan’s son, posted a cryptic message on Instagram shortly after the article was published: “Loyalty means everything. Some of us haven’t forgotten.”
What’s Next?
Cleary’s future with the Panthers is now uncertain. While his current contract runs through 2026, this public airing of grievances may signal a looming departure — voluntary or otherwise. Already, speculation is rife that the Wests Tigers, where Cleary previously coached, may look to bring him back amidst their own restructuring.
Penrith Panthers management released a short statement in response:
“We acknowledge Coach Cleary’s comments and remain committed to addressing any internal concerns in a professional and respectful manner.”
The rugby league world will be watching closely in the coming weeks. For now, Penrith faces not only a climb up the ladder — but a battle to hold together one of the most successful teams in NRL history.
