Te’o in frame for assistant coach role at Rabbitohs

By the Editorial Team · Friday, August 7, 2026

Ben Te’o is scheduled for an interview with the South Sydney Rabbitohs as a potential coaching staff member under Wayne Bennett, possibly starting in 2027. This move could mark a significant step in Te’o’s coaching career, especially as he weighs offers from multiple clubs and considers balancing his current role with Queensland Maroons and family relocation.

Ben Te’o is set to be interviewed by the South Sydney Rabbitohs next week amid growing speculation he could join the club’s coaching staff under Wayne Bennett as early as 2027. The 39-year-old, currently serving as an assistant coach with the Queensland Maroons, has attracted significant interest following his departure from the Brisbane Broncos in March.

Te’o’s exit from the Broncos occurred after a verbal confrontation with Brisbane head coach Michael Maguire, ending his tenure there abruptly. Since then, the former dual international has been a sought-after candidate for coaching roles within the National Rugby League (NRL). In addition to the Rabbitohs, he recently interviewed with another Sydney-based club and has been approached by Australia’s head coach, Kevin Walters, who is considering him for a defensive coaching role for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup.

Residing in Brisbane at present, Te’o has indicated a willingness to relocate his young family should the opportunity to coach in Sydney materialize. “As a young coach, you have to take opportunities when they come up,” he said. “There’s only so many clubs in Queensland and the tough part of coaching is you have to be willing to move your family.”

Te’o’s coaching career was initiated with support from Wayne Bennett during their time together at Redcliffe, and the Rabbitohs mentor appears keen to bring Te’o on board. Notably, Te’o won a premiership with South Sydney as a backrower in 2014, adding to the potential appeal of a reunion. However, the former player is also considering continuing his involvement with the Queensland Maroons, where Maroons coach Billy Slater recruited him for this year’s State of Origin series.

Te’o remains uncertain about his future with Queensland, having signed a one-year deal for the current season. “I really enjoyed my year there but I only signed for one year, so whether I go on next year is up in the air,” he said. Meanwhile, he has been keeping a close eye on NRL matches through his work as a commentator with Triple M, noting that the game is continually evolving and expressing a strong desire to return to the league in a coaching capacity.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.