BREAKING NEWS: Zac Lomax Released by Parramatta Eels Effective Immediately as Shock Switch to Saudi Rugby Stuns NRL
In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the NRL community, Parramatta Eels star Zac Lomax has been released from his contract effective immediately, paving the way for a groundbreaking move to the emerging Saudi Arabian rugby powerhouse, R360.
The news comes after weeks of whispers surrounding Lomax’s future, but even the boldest predictions did not foresee an exit of this magnitude — nor one motivated by what insiders are calling “life-changing money” from Saudi Rugby’s rapidly expanding program.
A Move Nobody Saw Coming
Lomax, known for his athleticism, aerial skills, and elite goal-kicking, joined the Parramatta Eels amid major fanfare and heavy expectations. He was billed as a marquee recruit — a player who could redefine the club’s attack and deliver the kind of X-factor Parramatta had been craving.
But in a development reminiscent of football’s Saudi Pro League shake-ups, the cashed-up rugby division of Saudi sports conglomerate R360 made a mammoth offer reportedly far beyond what any NRL club could match.
Sources close to negotiations describe the offer as “generational wealth,” with the Saudi program aggressively pursuing high-profile rugby league talents as part of a broader blueprint to elevate the sport within the Middle East.
Parramatta’s Official Statement
Within hours of intense negotiations, an official statement from the Parramatta Eels confirmed Lomax’s immediate departure:
“The Parramatta Eels have granted Zac Lomax an immediate release from his NRL contract. Zac approached the club with a request to explore an opportunity overseas, and after discussions, the club agreed to the release. We thank Zac for his contributions and wish him well in the next chapter of his career.”
The Eels reportedly attempted to retain Lomax, but insiders say the financial gap was simply impossible to close. The Saudi offer is believed to be several multiples of his NRL contract value.
The Saudi Rugby Rise
Saudi Arabia has already disrupted global football markets with billion-dollar investments into clubs and international stars. Now, the nation appears committed to expanding its influence into rugby — both union and league.
R360, the club set to sign Lomax, is part of a large-state-backed sports initiative aiming to attract elite talent to accelerate competition levels. Their entrance into the rugby landscape mirrors the Saudi blueprint from football: recruit top players, elevate visibility, and rapidly professionalize their domestic leagues.
Lomax becomes one of the first major NRL names to make the leap, marking a potentially transformative moment for the sport’s global economics.
What This Means for the Eels
The sudden release of such a high-profile player leaves Parramatta scrambling. Lomax was expected to be a cornerstone of their backline for the next several seasons, particularly after intense efforts to lure him away from the St George Illawarra Dragons.
Eels fans, already frustrated after recent inconsistent seasons, are expressing a mix of shock and disappointment. Many believed Lomax was set for a career-best period in blue and gold.
The club will now enter the player market earlier than planned, with an urgent need for an experienced outside back capable of filling Lomax’s role. While replacements may emerge, few offer the complete skill set Lomax brings.
Lomax’s Perspective
While Lomax has yet to make a full public statement, a brief comment shared through his management acknowledged the significance of his decision:
“This was an opportunity I never expected, and after careful thought, I believed it was the right move for my future and my family. I’m grateful to Parramatta for their understanding and support.”
Those close to him say the financial terms were simply “too big to ignore,” offering long-term security and global exposure in a rapidly growing sporting market.
Industry Reaction: A New Era?
The reaction across the NRL has been immediate — and dramatic. Several club executives and player agents are now openly questioning whether Saudi investment could spark a new wave of rugby league departures, similar to the football exodus that saw Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and dozens more join Saudi clubs.
If R360’s signing of Lomax proves successful, analysts believe additional NRL players could be targeted next.
A Historic Shift
For now, Zac Lomax’s move marks a historic moment — one that may signal the beginning of a new financial frontier in rugby league. What once seemed unthinkable is now reality: a top NRL talent is heading to Saudi Arabia, and the ripple effects could redefine the sport’s global landscape.
Parramatta will regroup. Fans will react. And the rugby world will watch closely.
But one thing is clear:
The Saudi Rugby era has officially begun — and Zac Lomax is its first major headline
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