Footy star Jarome Luai has published a cryptic social media post after copping criticism for signing a deal to become the face of Pepsi in Papua New Guinea.
Luai, 29, is set to join the PNG Chiefs on a tax-free $1.2 million contract for the footy club’s inaugural season in 2028 – but not before he joins the Parramatta Eels for a single premiership campaign in 2027.
The controversial playmaker has also signed a tax-free deal to represent the soft drink company in PNG, which will force him to travel between Australia and PNG next year – despite his contract with the Eels.
Fox League analyst and four-time premiership winner Cooper Cronk took aim at the NRL for allowing the deal to happen.
‘I’m not sure how the NRL can allow Jarome Luai to be contracted to the Tigers or Eels, but he can still service a third-party agreement that is for a contract in 2028,’ Cronk said.
‘We use the example of Payne Haas. Is Payne Haas servicing a contract for South Sydney? No. Like, that is not on.
Jarome Luai (pictured) has seemingly responded to criticism over a new deal on top of his $1.2 million agreement
Before Luai (pictured middle) moves to PNG – he will become the face of Pepsi and honour commitments while playing for the Parramatta Eels
The footy star has now seemingly hit back at criticism on Instagram
‘In my last year at the Melbourne Storm…would I be out there spruiking about my third party agreements at the Roosters while wearing a Melbourne Storm jersey? No.’
Luai has since posted a cryptic Instagram story, believed to be a response to the criticism.
‘Success attracts enemies. Progress breeds jealousy. If nobody hates you, you are not making it in life,’ the text on his story reads.
Despite Cronk’s harsh comments, Eels coach Jason Ryles has backed his incoming star.
‘He’s a pro – as long as he turns up and does what we need him to do at training, and playing and performing, you know what I mean?’ Ryles said.
‘It’s a pretty big part of all the players’ lives now, especially the boys at the pointy end.
‘So, you know, it’s not only just being a footy player now, there’s a brand and all the rest of it that goes with it.’
