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Mitchell Barnett to part ways with Warriors
Sport Nation • February 24th, 2026 10:44 am
Photo: Photosport
New Zealand Warriors co-captain Mitchell Barnett will return to Australia at the conclusion of the season, with the club agreeing to release him from the final year of his contract for personal reasons.
Warriors CEO Cameron George confirmed the decision on Tuesday, saying the call was made with Barnett’s family front of mind.
"It’s obviously disappointing for us, but Mitch and his family need to be back home," George said.
"He’s become a huge part of this club. We love having him here and we know how much he’s enjoyed his time in New Zealand, but it’s important that he, Clare and their boys are surrounded by their wider family and support network."
The 31-year-old Kangaroos and New South Wales front-rower has been a central figure for the Warriors since arriving at the club, earning a leadership role and establishing himself as one of the side’s most consistent performers.
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Barnett is recovering from an ACL injury that derailed his 2025 campaign, with his sights set on a return in the Warriors' season opener against the Sydney Roosters on March 6.
While his exit will leave a significant hole in the Warriors’ forward pack, the club has made it clear the decision was driven by compassion rather than football considerations, bringing an end to a highly valued chapter for both Barnett and the Warriors.
“It’s extremely hard coming to this decision,” Barnett told Code Sports.
“The decision I’ve made is the one that’s best for my family. This is based purely on our child’s medical needs and our need to be back around family going forward.
“I’m a father and husband before a footballer and that’s why, ultimately, I’m extremely comfortable with the decision.”
His departure will open the door for some of the Warriors' emerging forward talent, with Tanner Stowers-Smith and Demitric Vaimauga likely to step up to help fill the void.
Since signing on from the Newcastle Knights in 2023, Barnett has thrived, earning both his first Origin and Australia selections in 2024.
That same year, he was named the club's co-captain alongside James Fisher-Harris.
His first appearance of the 2026 campaign will mark his 50th game for the club, while he also sits just 23 matches shy of reaching 200 career NRL games.
In 2023, he inked a four-year deal to stay at Mt Smart until the end of the 2027 season.
