Raiders & Storm Clash Over Zac Lomax Contract Dispute & Court Date

The future of Zac Lomax remains uncertain as a courtroom battle between the player and the Parramatta Eels looms. The New South Wales Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the case beginning on February 13, with proceedings expected to last two days.

The dispute centers around Lomax’s release from the Eels at the end of the previous season and his subsequent talks with the Melbourne Storm. Parramatta granted Lomax a release to explore opportunities outside the National Rugby League (NRL), specifically with a rugby union competition, R360. However, when R360’s launch was postponed from 2026 to 2028, Lomax found himself without a team. The Eels are now arguing that while they agreed to release him, they did not authorize him to join another NRL club until 2028.

During a court hearing on Friday, February 6, Parramatta’s barrister, Arthur Moses SC, indicated that a key issue will be the enforceability of the condition preventing Lomax from playing for rival NRL clubs. The Eels are also considering whether to allege that Lomax made misleading statements prior to securing his release. The club intends to review material subpoenaed from the Melbourne Storm, Lomax’s solicitor Ramy Qutami, and his agent Clinton Schifcofske to determine if they will broaden their case.

The Storm are reportedly hoping for a swift resolution, ideally before February 12, to allow Lomax to potentially debut against the Eels in the opening round of the season. However, Parramatta is exploring the possibility of adding the Storm as a party to the proceedings, which would likely delay the hearing beyond the start of the season.

The legal action follows the breakdown of mediation talks between the Eels, Lomax, and the Storm. The Eels released a statement on January 22 confirming the commencement of legal proceedings. Lomax, a New South Wales State of Origin representative, had been in discussions with the Storm following their loss in the grand final to Brisbane, which saw the departure of Ryan Papenhuyzen and Nelson Asofa-Solomona.

The situation has drawn criticism from some quarters. Canberra Raiders chief executive Don Furner vehemently denied reports suggesting the Raiders had any interest in acquiring Lomax, calling such suggestions “absolute bullshit” and “a lie.” Furner stated the Raiders have no cap space and are not seeking outside backs. He emphasized that there were “absolutely zero” conversations with Lomax’s representatives, Clinton Schifcofske and Steve Gillis.

The Eels’ first trial match is scheduled for February 15. The initial agreement to terminate Lomax’s contract was reached in November 2025, one year into a four-year deal. Justice François Kunc is expected to rule on the timing of the full hearing after reviewing the subpoenaed material later on Friday.

The case highlights the complexities of player contracts and releases within the NRL, particularly when players explore opportunities in other codes. The outcome will have significant implications for Lomax’s playing future and could set a precedent for similar situations involving player releases and subsequent negotiations with rival clubs. The Eels are clearly determined to enforce the conditions of Lomax’s release, while Lomax is seeking to join the Storm as quickly as possible.

The legal battle underscores the increasing scrutiny surrounding player movements within the NRL and the lengths clubs will go to protect their investments and competitive interests. The expedited hearing suggests the urgency of the situation, with both the Eels and the Storm eager to resolve the matter before the start of the 2026 season.