Bennett hugs Darren Lockyer after Brisbane's 2006 Grand Final success

The 58-year-old former Australia coach, who has won six Grand Finals with the club, has been linked with a role with New Zealand ahead of the World Cup.

"My intention is to continue to coach, either in the northern hemisphere or the southern hemisphere," said Bennett.

He has coached the Broncos since their inception in 1988, the longest tenure in Australian rugby league history.

Although he is contracted to the end of the 2009 season, Bennett told the Broncos players of his decision to quit early at training on Tuesday.

Brisbane chairman Darryl Somerville stated: "Wayne has always told us he would know when the time was right for him to exit the club and he advised us last night that he believed that time was at the end of the 2008 season.

I am currently not in negotiations with any other club Wayne Bennett

"We respect that decision and thank him sincerely for what he has done and achieved for the club and wish him well in the future."

Brisbane's six Grand Final wins make him the most successful coach in the competition's history.

In addition to his club success, Bennett coached the Queensland Origin side to several series wins and was in charge of Australia for 16 Tests between 1998 and 2005.

He coached the All Golds to victory over the Northern Union in October's centenary international at Warrington and, following the recent resignation of Gary Kemble, looks set for a permanent role with the Kiwis.

Speculation will undoubtedly link Bennett with numerous other clubs, possibly English side St Helens, who will be losing Daniel Anderson at the end of 2007.

But Bennett, a former policeman, insisted: "I am currently not in negotiations with any other club.

"At this time my intention is to not make any further comment regarding my future as we at the Broncos have a season in front of us and, as always, I want the focus to be on the team.

"My commitment is to the team and that has always been - and will always be - my first priority."

The Broncos open their 2008 NRL campaign on 16 March with a home game against the Penrith Panthers.