BREAKING NEWS: The Lomax Controversy Escalates as Eels Take Legal Action Against NRL Star
The Parramatta Eels have officially initiated legal proceedings against former player Zac Lomax, who is seeking to make a comeback to the NRL for the upcoming 2026 season after being released from the club.
In a statement issued by the club on Thursday, the Eels disclosed that they have approached the New South Wales Supreme Court to help mediate a conflict with Lomax's legal representatives.
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“We are disheartened that it has come to this, but our responsibility to the club’s stakeholders necessitates that we uphold the contractual rights of our organization. Our members, players, and supporters expect that agreements will be honored,” stated Eels Chairman Matthew Beach in the club's announcement.
After securing his release from the Eels at the end of the previous year, which was duly granted, Lomax has recently been associated with a potential transfer to the Melbourne Storm. However, a stipulation tied to his release prohibits him from joining any other NRL club until after October 31, 2028, unless he obtains approval from the Eels.
While he is eligible to explore opportunities outside of the NRL, this condition was established to protect the interests of the club.
“In November 2025, we consented to Zac Lomax's request for a release to pursue avenues outside of the NRL, with the understanding that he would not return to the NRL during the term of his original contract with our club, unless we provided written permission,” Beach further elaborated.
“Zac had legal representation during the discussions surrounding his release. He agreed to these terms based on his assertion that he was primarily interested in exploring opportunities within rugby union, particularly with R360. The documentation for the release has been duly filed with the NRL, which is aware of the conditions linked to the release.”
RELATED: A warning from a legend follows Lomax’s significant Eels decision that ‘backfired’ (https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/nrl-2026-braith-anasta-sends-warning-to-parramatta-eels-over-zac-lomax-contract-saga-melbourne-storm/news-story/f923a14acd4911b3e2235c2bf2e855fd)
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“Our organization strongly believes in the necessity of upholding contractual commitments. Contracts provide a framework that enables both clubs and players to operate with clarity and within established guidelines. These agreements are integral to ensuring fairness in dealings within the community and among businesses, and this principle extends to the NRL, its clubs, and its athletes.”
“Towards the end of last year, when we were approached by the Melbourne Storm, we engaged with them earnestly in discussions. Unfortunately, we have not reached an agreement that represents adequate compensation for our club, particularly regarding our football program. Our primary goal has been to ensure a fair exchange of value, especially given the Storm's pursuit of benefits from our club.”
Beach also reiterated that the Eels are open to allowing Lomax to play for another team in 2026, but only if appropriate compensation is provided to the club.
Earlier this month, it was reported that the Eels had identified potential players like Jack Howarth, Stefano Utoikamanu, and Xavier Coates as candidates for a player swap.
“Our coaching staff, players, members, and fans would not anticipate us consenting to the release based on the current offers. Consequently, we feel compelled to take legal action to enforce the terms of the release and safeguard the rights of our club,” he concluded.
