BREAKING NEWS: Canberra raiders Head coach Ricky Stuart Makes Stunning Announcement That Leaves National Rugby League (NRL) Fans and the entire Canberra raiders Team in Shock…….. view more

BREAKING NEWS: Canberra Raiders Head Coach Ricky Stuart Makes Stunning Announcement That Leaves NRL Fans and the Entire Raiders Team in Shock

In a bombshell development that has sent shockwaves through the rugby league world, Canberra Raiders head coach Ricky Stuart has made a stunning announcement that has left fans, players, and the broader NRL community reeling.

At an emotional press conference held earlier this morning at GIO Stadium, Stuart—who has been at the helm of the Raiders since 2014—unexpectedly revealed that he would be stepping away from coaching duties effective immediately.

“I’ve given everything I have to this club, to this team, and to the game I love,” Stuart said, holding back tears. “This decision hasn’t come easy, but it’s time for me to take a step back—for personal reasons and for the future of the Canberra Raiders.”

The 2025 NRL season had already been turbulent for the Raiders, with injuries, inconsistent performances, and speculation about internal tensions. However, few expected such a dramatic turn of events with the season still underway.

Players and Fans React

The announcement reportedly caught many within the Raiders’ camp off guard. Senior players were seen consoling each other following the press conference, with some visibly emotional.

Captain Elliott Whitehead issued a brief statement shortly after: “Ricky has been more than a coach—he’s been a mentor and a leader for us all. His departure is heartbreaking, but we respect his decision and will fight to finish the season strong in his honour.”

NRL fans have taken to social media to express their shock, with hashtags like #ThankYouRicky and #RaidersShock trending nationally within hours.

What’s Next for the Raiders?

Assistant coach Brett White is expected to take over interim coaching duties while the club searches for a long-term replacement. Speculation has already begun about possible successors, including former NRL greats and current assistant coaches around the league.

Club CEO Don Furner praised Stuart’s legacy, saying: “Ricky Stuart transformed this club. He brought pride back to Canberra and led us to some of our best seasons in recent memory. We are forever grateful.”

Ricky Stuart’s Legacy

Under Stuart’s leadership, the Raiders reached the 2019 NRL Grand Final—one of their most memorable seasons in decades. His passionate, no-nonsense style earned him both admirers and critics, but few would deny his deep commitment to the club and its fans.

While Stuart hasn’t confirmed whether he’s retiring from coaching altogether or just taking a break, he left the door open for a return someday.

“This isn’t goodbye forever,” he said with a faint smile. “Just see you later—for now.”