Former Brisbane Broncos legend Darren Lockyer has taken legal action against the club, filing a lawsuit over an alleged unpaid wages dispute that could cost the Broncos millions. The claim reportedly stems from compensation Lockyer says he was promised during his time as a player and later in his role as a member of the club’s administration.

Lockyer, one of the most iconic figures in the club’s history, retired from playing in 2011 but maintained a strong connection with the Broncos through various off-field roles. Sources close to the dispute allege that a significant portion of the unpaid wages relates to a series of ambassadorial and administrative duties Lockyer undertook after his retirement. The payments in question reportedly span several years and amount to a multimillion-dollar figure.

While neither Lockyer nor the Broncos have made public statements regarding the court case, the dispute has sent shockwaves through the rugby league community. If the lawsuit is successful, it could result in substantial financial losses for the club, which is already facing pressure to manage its finances during a challenging economic period for many NRL clubs.

Lockyer, revered as one of the best players in rugby league history, played over 350 games for the Broncos, leading the team to multiple premiership victories. His post-retirement roles saw him serve as a mentor, ambassador, and board member for the Broncos, making this dispute a deeply personal issue between the legendary player and the club he helped elevate to greatness.

The case is expected to go to trial later this year, and the outcome could set a precedent for other player-turned-administrators seeking compensation for post-retirement roles in professional sports clubs.