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"Won't be signing": Slater makes shock contract declaration
Nicholas Quinlan • June 29th, 2026 1:48 pm
Billy Slater has declared that he won’t sign another contract with the Maroons as Queensland prepares for a Game III decider.
Slater’s future in the role has been speculated for several years, having been viewed as a potential successor to Craig Bellamy at the Melbourne Storm.
And with 43-year-old’s contract expiring at the end of this series following a three-year extension in 2023, that speculation has only risen.
When asked whether next Wednesday’s game would be his last, the 43-year-old was confident he would continue in the role but ruled out signing a deal to extend his tenure officially.
“I don’t think so, but I don’t know,” Slater told the media.
“I won’t be signing another contract. This is not a contract job for me.
“I really enjoy helping this group of men go and inspire our people of Queensland.
“When that changes, my position will change. Or if someone in the QRL decides there’s someone better for the job, I’m all for that as well.
“Whilst I’m here, I really enjoy helping these guys prepare for a game of footy and to go out there and help them inspire the people of Queensland because that’s what it's all about.”
When asked a follow-up about his future with the Maroons, Slater said he would be working on a handshake deal with the QRL.
“Yep, pretty much. It might surprise you, but that’s how it is,” he added.
Slater will look to secure his fourth State of Origin series as coach when the Maroons host the Blues at Suncorp Stadium for Game III on July 8.
SEN will have you covered for the decider with THREE different live calls to pick from with Maroons and Blues Radio alongside a neutral Origin LIVE feed.
All three calls can be heard across our radio network and on the SEN app from 7pm AEST.
Kick-off takes place at 8:05pm.
