Wakefield Trinity promise 'exciting signing news' as star Tyson Smoothy's move to NRL club for 2027 confirmed

Trinity today (Monday) confirmed the hooker has been released from the final two years of his contract on compassionate grounds and will join NRL new club Perth Bears in 2027. The 27-year-old joined Wakefield last autumn after helping Brisbane Broncos to victory in the NRL Grand Final, but had been strongly linked with a return home to Australia and has penned a three-year deal with Perth.

Trinity director of rugby Ste Mills said. “Tyson has made a fantastic contribution to the squad this season and while we would love to keep him at the club, we are conscious of family circumstances and his desire to return home to Australia. Tyson’s attitude and performance have been first class all year and the club is supportive of his decision.”

Smoothy will link up with Leeds Rhinos’ Harry Newman, James McDonnell and Mikollaj Oledzki at Perth. “I would like to thank Daryl [Powell, Trinity’s coach], Ste and all the staff and players at Wakefield for their understanding of my situation and the opportunity they have provided me to return to Australia,” Smoothy said.

“I’m focused on continuing to work hard for this great club and bring [ing] the Super League title to Wakefield. I am also excited about the opportunity to make history with the Perth Bears next season. The squad is taking shape and it will be good to see a few familiar faces.”

Bears coach Mal Meninga added: “I’d like to thank Daryl, Ste and the Wakefield club for releasing Tyson and allowing him to sign with the Perth Bears. They are a proud club and the fact they let Tyson return home early shows how much they care about their players.

“I’m looking forward to working with Tyson when he returns home. He is a super-talented player who has had success throughout his career.”

Trinity have urged fans to watch out for some “exciting signing news” later today.