Brief
Nick Politis drives Roosters’ Grand Final push with relentless recruitment
At 85, Politis remains the driving force behind the Roosters’ recruitment, from early jersey‑sponsor deals to recent star signings.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Nick Politis, the 85‑year‑old billionaire chairman of the Sydney Roosters, is credited with a relentless, hands‑on approach to player recruitment as the club heads into the NRL Grand Final on 3 October 2026.
What happened
Politis, who first became involved with the Roosters in 1976 by securing a $150,000 three‑year jersey‑sponsor deal for his company City Ford, has overseen a string of high‑profile signings, including Brad Fittler, Sonny Bill Williams, Cooper Cronk and Daly Cherry‑Evans. Most recently, the club secured wing sensation Mark Nawaqanitawase after his two‑year stint with Japan’s Saitama Wild Knights, a move described as a “prized acquisition” for the Roosters’ class of ’26.
What the reports add
The SMH profile notes that Politis travelled to Japan this week on business for his automotive holdings – he is the largest shareholder in Eagers Automotive – and will return to Sydney a day before the Grand Final. Mark Bouris, a long‑time club director, is quoted saying Politis will not stop pursuing a player until a deal is sealed, even if it means answering calls at 4 am and sleeping only three or four hours a night.
What was said
“When Nick decides on a player, he will not let up until he gets the deal,” Bouris told the SMH. A player agent, speaking on condition of anonymity, described Politis as “a fair guy… a hunter,” adding that his pragmatism and proactive style underpin the Roosters’ success at every level.
How it came about
Politis’ recruitment strategy dates back to the 1970s and has evolved into a meticulous, cross‑code network that includes negotiations with Japanese clubs and leveraging his automotive business connections. His influence is evident in the Roosters’ return to the premiership decider for the first time in seven years, positioning the club as favourites for a fifth title under his leadership since 1993.
Key facts
- Nick Politys first joined the Roosters in 1976 with a $150,000 City Ford jersey‑sponsor deal. (smh.com.au)
- Politis is the largest shareholder in Eagers Automotive and was in Japan on business the week before the Grand Final. (smh.com.au)
- He has overseen signings of Brad Fittler, Sonny Bill Williams, Cooper Cronk, Daly Cherry‑Evans and Mark Nawaqanitawase. (smh.com.au)
- Mark Bouris said Politis works at 3‑4 hours of sleep a day and answers calls at 4 am to close deals. (smh.com.au)
- The Roosters are favourites to win the Grand Final on 3 October 2026, their first appearance in seven years. (smh.com.au)
Sources
- [1] smh.com.au — originally reported as “Sydney Roosters recruitment: Inside the ruthless and meticulous deal-making of billionaire powerbroker Nick Politis”
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