BOMBSHELL ANNOUNCEMENT: Canberra Raiders National Rugby League (NRL) legend hooker Tom Starling has finalized a landmark agreement deal reportedly worth about $172.5 million to become their next..

In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves across the National Rugby League (NRL), Canberra Raiders legend and former hooker Tom Starling has officially finalized a record-shattering $172.5 million deal to become the next head coach of the Raiders.

The announcement, confirmed by club officials late Monday night, marks a historic moment for both Starling and the Raiders organization — not only for the staggering value of the agreement but for the emotional return of one of the club’s most beloved figures.

A Return Written in Destiny

At just 26 years old, Starling has already cemented his name in Canberra Raiders history through years of determination, grit, and leadership on the field. His transition from player to head coach comes as part of a bold new vision from the Raiders board, aimed at rejuvenating the club’s performance and culture following a challenging 2024 season.

“This is more than a job — it’s an opportunity to give back to the club that gave me everything,” Starling said at the official press conference.
“I’ve lived and breathed the Raiders since day one. I know what this jersey means, and I’ll do everything in my power to bring glory back to Canberra.”

A Record-Breaking Deal

The $172.5 million agreement, one of the largest contracts ever signed in the NRL, reportedly includes:

• A seven-year tenure as head coach.

• Performance-based bonuses tied to finals appearances and premiership success.

• Strategic oversight of the club’s development programs and youth academies.

• Long-term brand and leadership partnerships within the Raiders’ organization.

Club chairman Don Furner Jr. praised the deal, calling it a “transformational moment for the club and the NRL as a whole.”

“Tom represents everything the Raiders stand for — passion, integrity, and excellence,” Furner said. “He’s the right person to guide this team into a new era.”

A New Era for the Raiders

Starling’s appointment comes amid major structural changes within the Raiders camp, including a renewed focus on developing homegrown talent and investing in state-of-the-art facilities. His leadership style — described as intense, tactical, and deeply player-focused — is expected to bring fresh energy to the locker room.

Former Raiders teammates and league figures have flooded social media with praise and surprise. NRL commentator Andrew Johns called the move “a daring but brilliant step forward,” while fans have dubbed Starling’s return as “the beginning of the Raiders renaissance.”

Legacy and Expectations

Starling’s new role will officially begin in January 2025, with preseason training camps already being planned under his supervision. The young coach’s challenge will be immense — reviving the Raiders’ competitive edge and leading them back to premiership contention.