The Wests Tigers are making waves as they gear up for the 2025 National Rugby League (NRL) season, spotlighting their latest star signee, Jarome Luai, alongside securing a prominent sponsorship deal with OzCar. Amidst hopes of turning around their fortunes after years of struggles, these developments signal the Tigers' commitment to enhancing their competitive edge.
Jarome Luai, hailed as one of the best five-eighths within the NRL, recently signed with Wests for what was reported to be $6 million over five years. The 2025 season poses significant importance for Luai, who not only aims to help propel the Tigers toward their first finals appearance since 2011 but also potentially secure his legacy as one of the club's all-time greats. On SEN 1170's Breakfast with Vossy and Brandy, sports journalist Andrew Voss made bold predictions about Luai’s impact on the organization. "For a team... hop on the Luai bus," he stated, emphasizing the potential for excitement and positive change.
Luai’s signing arrives at a pivotal juncture for the Tigers, who have endured three consecutive wooden spoons and face mounting pressure for success. His previous performance for the Penrith Panthers showcased his capabilities, especially highlighted during Nathan Cleary's absence throughout the last season due to injury. Luai notched up impressive averages, including over 236 kicking meters and over 100 running meters per game—both unprecedented feats for him. This readiness to take charge on the field bolsters hopes for Tigers fans seeking revitalization.
While excitement mounts around Luai, concerns have been raised about whether the signing can drastically alter the club's ability to climb from the bottom of the standings. Voss articulated these doubts, asking, “Can the buy of the year be in a club... back to say tenth or eleventh or ninth?” He pondered whether merely placing as high as tenth would be sufficient to indicate meaningful progress. Yet, he concluded, "Well, if tenth or eleventh means they are in finals contention, then at least it will get Tigers fans excited." Such sentiments reflect the broader aspirations held for Luai’s debut when Wests take on Newcastle at Campbelltown on March 7, 2025.
On another front, Wests Tigers are pleased to announce their partnership with OzCar, Australia's leading pre-owned vehicle retailer, which has signed on as the Back of Shorts Sponsor for the 2025 season. The historical significance of this sponsorship aligns closely with the Tigers’ ambition of building strong connections with reputable industry brands. OzCar’s Managing Director, Brett Dale, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership during the announcement, stating, "OzCar are very glad... can’t wait for the season to start." He underscored the shared consumer demographic between OzCar customers and Wests Tigers fans, reflecting the importance of the collaboration on both sides.
Wests Tigers Chief Commercial Officer Peter Lang added to Dale's sentiments, remarking, "OzCar are... and OzCar is a great example of this.” Together, both organizations plan to work synergistically throughout the season, leveraging their respective strengths to create innovative and engaging experiences for fans.
Supported by these strategic moves, Wests Tigers' apparel partners for the coming season now encompass all elements for the 2025 campaign. With limited league success historically, including only three finals appearances since the NRL's merger, both the organization and its fanbase are eager to witness a turnaround. It will be imperative for Luai’s dynamic playing style and the backing from OzCar to realize those championship aspirations.
Ahead of their pre-season game against Parramatta at Leichhardt today, anticipation continues to build as fans eagerly await Luai's debut. Can he be the catalyst for change? Only time will tell, but the Wests Tigers are gearing up for what they hope will be their season of renaissance.