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In a major announcement that has thrilled fans and affirmed the Canberra Raiders’ future direction, head coach Ricky Stuart has officially re-signed with the club on a four-year contract extensio , which will see him remain at the helm until the end of the 2029 NRL season
The decision signals Stuart’s commitment to the Raiders — the club where he launched his rugby league career as a player and later returned as head coach — and confirms his plan to end his professional coaching career in Canberra
This club has shaped me — as a player, as a coach, and as a person,” Stuart said at Friday’s press conference. “It’s a privilege to be part of something bigger than myself. Canberra is my home, and I want to finish what I started here.”
Ricky Stuart’s relationship with the Raiders is one of the most storied in the NRL. As a player, he starred at halfback during the club’s golden era, helping Canberra secure three premierships in 1989, 1990, and 1994 Known for his competitive fire and precise kicking game, Stuart was a key figure in the team’s dominance through the early 1990s.
After retiring as a player, Stuart moved into coaching and had stints with the Sydney Roosters, Cronulla Sharks, and Parramatta Eels. But it wasn’t until his return to Canberra in 2014that he found a long-term coaching home — one that connected deeply with his identity and values.
Since taking over as head coach, Stuart has rebuilt the Raiders’ culture, guided the club to multiple finals appearances, and led them to a Grand Final in 2019 where they narrowly lost to the Sydney Roosters.
Stuart’s decision to re-sign with Canberra is all the more significant given recent reports of interest from other NRL clubs and international organisations. Several clubs were reportedly prepared to offer the veteran coach higher salaries and fresh starts.
But in classic Stuart fashion, loyalty won out over money.
’ve had the calls, and I’ve listened — but my heart is here,” Stuart said. “I’m not chasing dollars or headlines. I’m chasing a legacy, and that legacy belongs in green.
His extension sends a clear message: Stuart is in it for the long haul, committed to the players he’s developed, the fans who have stood by him, and the city that continues to rally behind the team.
Canberra Raiders CEO Don Furne welcomed the news with open arms, calling Stuart “the foundation of the club’s modern identity.
Ricky brings more than tactics — he brings heart, integrity, and direction,” Furner said. “He has played a massive role in bringing our club back to prominence, and we’re thrilled to have his leadership locked in for another four years.”
Players also responded with enthusiasm. Raiders co-captain **Elliott Whitehead** said the announcement gives the team a sense of stability and motivation heading into the 2026 season.
Ricky has built a culture that’s about honesty, hard work, and respect,” Whitehead said. “We’re proud to play for him, and knowing he’s here for the long term gives us belief that we can achieve something special.
One of Stuart’s greatest achievements as coach has been the development of local talent and unheralded players. He’s helped turn rookies into regular starters, established a strong pipeline from junior systems, and forged a team identity built on toughness and unity.
With four more years guaranteed, Stuart says he’s more determined than ever to build a team capable of winning the club’s fourth premiership
We’ve come close — 2019 hurt, he admitted. “But we’re building the right way. I believe in our young players, in our senior leadership, and in our future.
Stuart also highlighted plans to further invest in the club’s community engagement and development pathways — ensuring the Raiders remain a club not just of success, but of sustainability and purpose
In an era where coaching turnover is common and clubs often chase short-term success, Ricky Stuart’s long-term re-signing stands out. It speaks to a deeper connection — between a coach and his team, a city and its sporting identity, and a shared vision for the future.
I’ve always believed coaching is more than game plans — it’s about people, Stuart said. “And the people here — the players, the staff, the fans — they’re why I coach. I want to finish my journey right here, where it all began.
As the 2026 NRL season approaches, the Raiders have made their statement loud and clear: with Ricky Stuart leading the way, Canberra is not just planning for the next game — they’re building toward a lasting legacy.