Leeds Rhinos say they “completely understand” loose-forward Cameron Smith’s decision to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of this season.
The former skipper is set to join Betfred Super League neighbours Wakefield Trinity in 2027, ending a decade as a member of Rhinos’ first team squad.
Smith, from Castleford, came through Rhinos’ academy system and made the first of his 167 appearances so far in April, 2016.
Last Saturday’s 46-16 pre-season win over Bradford Bulls was his testimonial game.
He was Rhinos’ player of the year in 2023 and became captain the following season, but two long-term injuries restricted him to only 12 first team appearances in 2025, eight of those as a substitute.
Having shared the captaincy with Ash Handley last year, he lost the duty this pre-season and also moved down the squad number order from 13 to 17.
Leeds Rhinos confirm Cameron Smith exit
Confirming Smiths’ exit, Rhinos Sporting Director Ian Blease revealed: “I have been speaking to Cameron’s agent for a number of months.
“We have kept that conversation going, but I was always aware Cameron may like to look at other options as they arrive.
“Cameron, his agent and the club were keen to get things resolved before the season started, so Cameron was able to focus on the year ahead.
“It is a big year for the club and Cameron as he celebrates a decade at the Rhinos with his testimonial.
“Recently I was informed Cameron would take up a new challenge from 2027 and I completely understand that decision.
“Cameron has given so much to this club, his dedication to the cause over the last 10 years is exemplary.
“He will be determined to finish his term with the Rhinos on the best possible note and I wish him all the very best in a new chapter of his career.”
Leeds Rhinos have confirmed that loose forward Cameron Smith will leave the club at the end of the 2026 Betfred Super League season and the conclusion of his current contract.
More https://t.co/5csDnxGMVn pic.twitter.com/6dWKZKZ1Fi— Leeds Rhinos (@leedsrhinos) January 27, 2026
What Smith said as exit announced
Speaking for the first time about his impending departure, Smith conceded: “This was a big decision for me to make. I have spent my entire career at the Rhinos.
“It was special last week to reflect on my decade at the club and it has been great to be back on the field after my injury last year.
“I am pleased to have my future decided and I have no distraction ahead of a big year with the Rhinos in 2026.
“Last year, with the back injury and surgery I had, you realise it can be a short career with things outside of your control and that gave me a fresh perspective on a lot of things.
“I am looking forward to a big year with a special group of players here at the Rhinos.”
Coach Brad Arthur hailed Smith as “a great servant to the club”.
He stated: “It was great he could celebrate his time at the club on Saturday with his teammates, family and the fans and I know it meant so much to him.
“It is the nature of professional sports that people have to make decisions about their future while still in contract and is part of the game everyone accepts and understands.
“Cameron has worked hard to get back to full fitness and I know he is hoping for a big season in 2026.”
Smith is the third player to announce his exit at the end of this campaign, following the Perth Bears-bound duo of centre Harry Newman and second-rower James McDonnell.
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