DEAL ACCEPTED: Broncos National Rugby League Women’s Superstar Tamika Upton Signs a 4-year Contract With the Canberra Raiders, worth $250 Million as their new…..

In one of the biggest shocks in the history of the women’s game, NRL Women’s superstar Tamika Upton has accepted a four‑year contract worth A$250 million with the Canberra Raiders, signalling a dramatic shift in the power‑balance of the sport.

A new chapter begins

Upton, widely regarded as one of the finest fullbacks in the game, has agreed to the blockbuster deal with the Raiders, making her their new marquee signing. Her arrival is expected to transform the Raiders’ ambitions and bring instant star‑power to the club.

Why the Raiders went all‑in

The Raiders have been steadily building their NRLW program, and landing Upton puts them in rare company. With her proven winning record, representative honours and dynamic playing style, she ticks every box of what a franchise wants to take the next step. The scale of the contract also sends a signal: the club intends to compete at the highest level — now.

Upton’s journey so far

Originally from Rockhampton, Upton made her NRLW debut with the Brisbane Broncos before moving to the Newcastle Knights, where she achieved further success. Her resume includes multiple premierships, major individual awards and the kind of influence that shifts games.

Her decision to move to the Raiders represents not just a club‑change, but a strategic shift in the women’s game itself.

What this means for the game

Financial precedent: A reported A$250 million contract over four years dwarfs previous deals in the NRLW and sets a new benchmark.

Women’s sport growth: The size of the deal underscores the commercial growth and increasing investment in women’s rugby league.

Raiders’ positioning: With Upton on board, the Raiders are signalling they’re not just participants but challengers for the title.

Competitive ripple‑effect: Other clubs may feel compelled to up their recruitment and salary offers to avoid being left behind.

The road ahead

From 2026–2029 (or whatever seasons the contract covers), Upton will don Raiders colours. The questions now include: how will the club integrate her into their systems? What support staff and resources will be brought in to match such an investment? How will existing squads adapt?

And for the rest of the league: will this spark a new wave of “mega‑signings” in the NRLW, pushing the sport into a higher financial and performance stratum?