Nathan Cleary Cleared to Play in Season Opener After Father’s Judiciary Success

Penrith Panthers star Nathan Cleary is free to play in his team’s highly anticipated season opener against the Brisbane Broncos after his father, Panthers coach Ivan Cleary, successfully defended him at the NRL judiciary on Monday, February 23, 2026.

A Rare Father-Son Judiciary Appearance

The hearing marked a rare occasion in NRL history, with Ivan Cleary becoming only the second father to represent his son at the judiciary since the late Bob Fulton represented Scott Fulton in the late 1990s. The Clearys successfully argued for a downgrade of the charge and a $1800 fine related to a high shot made by Nathan Cleary on Wests Tigers’ Heamasi Makasini during a trial match last Friday night.

The Case and Defense

Ivan Cleary convinced the judiciary panel that the initial contact in the tackle was to Makasini’s shoulder, warranting a reduction from the initial Grade 2 dangerous contact charge. The defense presented three still images demonstrating “right shoulder to right shoulder” contact. Nathan Cleary explained his defensive positioning, stating he aimed to avoid being a “speed bump” and deliberately lowered his arm to prevent a head-high collision.

Cleary’s Reaction

Nathan Cleary expressed gratitude for his father’s efforts, stating, “I’m disappointed I had to put him through that little extra function… but I’m grateful for his effort.” He acknowledged his initial uncertainty about his father representing him, given past unsuccessful judiciary appearances, but ultimately trusted Ivan’s judgment and believed they had a strong case.

Initial Charge and Potential Suspension

Prior to the successful hearing, Nathan Cleary was facing a potential two-match suspension after being issued a grade two dangerous contact charge by the NRL’s match review committee for the hit on Heamasi Makasini. Accepting an early guilty plea would have resulted in a two-game suspension, sidelining him for the Panthers’ season opener against Brisbane and their round two match against Cronulla. Contesting the charge and losing would have added an additional one-game ban.

Ivan Cleary’s Legal Prowess

The outcome has led to speculation about Ivan Cleary’s potential future career path, with some suggesting he could transition into law after coaching. This successful representation demonstrates a natural aptitude for legal argument and strategy.

With the judiciary matter resolved, the Panthers can now focus on their season opener against the reigning premiers, the Brisbane Broncos, with their star halfback available for selection.