Source: Radio New Zealand
Mitch Barnett www.photosport.nz
New Zealand Warriors co-captain Mitchell Barnett will return to Australia at the end of the 2026 NRL season for personal reasons.
Club chief executive Cameron George confirmed today the 31-year-old Kangaroos and New South Wales front rower will be released from the final year of his contract.
It is understood the release is due to Barnett’s child’s medical needs.
Mitchell Barnett during pre-season training in January. Andrew Cornaga/Photosport
“We’re very sad to see this happen but Mitch and his family need to be back home,” George said.
“He has become such a big part of our club. We love having him here and we know how much he loves it, too, but it’s important he, Clare and their boys are back around their family support network.”
After recovering from knee surgery in 2025, Barnett has two career milestones in sight as he eyes the 2026 season.
Barnett’s first game of the season will be his 50th for the club, while he’s 23 games away from his 200th career NRL appearance.
The Warriors kick off their 2026 season with a clash with the Sydney Roosters at Go Media Mt Smart Stadium, 8pm on March 6.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
