“VERY BAD DECISION”: FORMER LEGEND SLAMS ROOSTERS OVER TUPOU DEPARTURE
The Sydney Roosters have officially informed 35-year-old winger Daniel “Toops” Tupou that he will not be offered a contract extension beyond the 2026 NRL season, with the club stating its focus is on investing in young talent. However, a former Roosters legend has voiced strong opposition to the move, insisting the team still needs Tupou’s experience and labelling the decision “very bad”.
Tupou, the longest-serving current player at the Bondi Junction club, has enjoyed a remarkable career in the red, white and blue, establishing himself as one of the most successful players in Roosters history. A three-time NRL Premiership winner – claiming titles in 2013, 2018 and 2019 – he has etched his name into the club’s record books as the all-time leading try-scorer, surpassing Anthony Minichiello to become the first Roosters player to reach 150 tries.
His achievements extend far beyond try-scoring records, with three World Club Challenge victories in 2014, 2019 and 2020 to his name. Having played over 250 NRL games for the club, he ranks among the most-capped players in Roosters history and was named Clubman of the Year in 2019 in recognition of his contributions both on and off the field.
Tupou has been a mainstay on the left wing for more than a decade, renowned for his consistency, reliability under the high ball and powerful carries. He created iconic moments for the club, scoring the first try in the 2018 Grand Final and setting up James Tedesco for the match-winning play in the 2019 decider. Head coach Trent Robinson has previously hailed him as one of the greatest wingers of all time.
The club’s decision to part ways with Tupou at season’s end has drawn fierce criticism from a former Roosters great, who spoke out against the move today. “To let our longest-serving player leave like this is a very bad decision,” the legend said. “The young players coming through need someone with his experience, someone who knows what it takes to win premierships and perform under pressure. You can’t buy that kind of knowledge or leadership.”
In a statement confirming the decision, the Roosters emphasized their commitment to building for the future. “We have immense respect for Daniel and everything he has achieved for this club,” the statement read. “He will always be a Roosters legend, but our focus now is on developing the next generation of talent to ensure long-term success for the club.”
Tupou is set to play out the 2026 season with the Roosters, and has expressed his determination to finish his career at the club on a high note. As preparations for the new campaign begin, the debate continues over whether the club’s focus on youth has come at the cost of losing one of its most influential figures too soon.
