Kieran Foran retires after 17 seasons in NRL

NRL veteran Kieran Foran says he wants the Gold Coast Titans to plan for 2026, confirming he’ll retire at the end of his 17th season, ending a stellar career that spanned five clubs.

Foran, 34, will play his 310th match against the Brisbane Broncos on Sunday and, with the club also set to move on coach Des Hasler, said the time was right for him to hang up his boots.

“This is a game I have loved ever since I was a young boy, so coming to the decision was a difficult one … but it’s now something that I’m really comfortable with,” Foran said.

“Announcing my retirement now allows the club time to plan for 2026 and it also allows me to start preparing for my future after football.

“I’m still as competitive as ever and every time I pull on the Titans jersey over the next few months, I’m going to be giving everything I’ve got.”

Foran began his NRL career with Manly in 2009 and played 196 games for the club across two stints. He also spent time with the Parramatta Eels (nine games), New Zealand Warriors (17 games), Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs (40 games) and the Titans (47 games to date).

He also won an NRL premiership as well as Four Nations and Pacific Championships titles with New Zealand, having captained his country.

“I’m most proud of the fact I’ve been able to live out my dream as a young boy and go on to play 17 seasons in the NRL,” he said.

“The joy that has brought to my family, extended family, friends and fans of our game and the lessons that I’ve learnt along the way will help me immensely in the next phase of my life.”

“I want to thank all five of the clubs that I’ve played for over my career.

“I want to pay tribute to the teammates I’ve had at those clubs and the supporters and fans of each and every one of those clubs that have supported me across my time wearing their club colours.

“From my early teammates to the current group here at the Titans, I’ve formed lifelong friendships and bonds that I’m forever grateful for.”

Foran spent much of his career playing under Hasler, who handed him his debut almost two decades ago, and lauded him as “one of the NRL’s ultimate competitors”.

“His career has been quite a journey which he has had to navigate highs and lows, but what he has achieved over the past 17 seasons truly epitomises his character and perseverance,” Hasler said.

“Since he debuted, his fighting spirit has become legendary and, in his words, he has always been all-in.

“This won’t change for the remainder of his final season.

“His story and journey won’t be lost to the game when he hangs up the boots and his future in mentoring young men and women will ensure his legacy continues.”