SHOCKING BLAST FROM THE PAST: The Day the Brisbane Broncos Turned Their Backs on Wally Lewis — “It Still Hurts”
In one of the most controversial moments in Australian rugby league history, the Brisbane Broncos made a decision in 1990 that still leaves fans divided and emotional to this day — the stunning axing of Wally Lewis, the original King of Lang Park.
Known as “The King” and one of Queensland’s most beloved rugby league icons, Wally Lewis was not just a player — he was a symbol of Queensland pride, grit, and dominance. But despite his legendary status, the Broncos shocked the rugby league world when they refused to renew his contract after the 1990 season. The reason? A bold shift toward youth, speed, and long-term planning — a move that many believed came at the cost of loyalty.
Lewis, who had captained the Broncos and led Queensland to multiple State of Origin victories, was devastated. “It wasn’t just a business decision — it felt personal,” he later admitted in a 2015 interview. The fallout from the move was instant. Fans were furious. Jerseys were burned. Letters flooded Broncos headquarters. Some supporters even vowed never to watch another game.
What made the move even more bitter was that Lewis joined the Gold Coast Seagulls shortly after — a club with far fewer resources and far less success. Watching their beloved captain wear another jersey was something Broncos fans never thought they’d see.
The decision was led by then-coach Wayne Bennett and Broncos management, who believed in building around younger talents like Allan Langer, Kevin Walters, and Steve Renouf. Ironically, just two years later, that very core would deliver Brisbane its first-ever premiership in 1992. For many, the question still lingers — did success justify sacrificing loyalty?
Even today, debates erupt among die-hard fans: Should Wally have retired a Bronco? Did the club disrespect Queensland’s greatest-ever player? Or was it simply the painful price of progress in professional sport.
Lewis was later honored with a statue outside Suncorp Stadium, but some fans believe it’s still not enough. “They should’ve named the stadium after him,” one fan wrote in a viral post. “Wally IS Queensland. What they did to him was cold.”
The scars of that decision haven’t fully healed, even three decades later. Young fans are often shocked to learn that the King never lifted a trophy with the Broncos — the very team he helped put on the map.
As the Broncos chase new titles and glory in the modern era, one truth remains: the shadow of 1990 still looms. And for many, Wally Lewis will always be the heart the Broncos left behind.
