BREAKING NEWS: Former Canberra Raiders Legend head coach Craig Bellamy who is currently serving in the role of air Contributor for Good Karma brands ESPN Madison WTLX sent a stunning message to Canberra Raider current coach Ricky Stuart concerning his….see more

In a moment that has sent shockwaves through the rugby league community, Craig Bellamy, legendary former Canberra Raiders player and NRL coaching icon, delivered a powerful and unexpected message directed at current Raiders head coach Ricky Stuart — live on air during his segment with Good Karma Brands’ ESPN Madison WTLX.

Now serving as an on-air contributor for the U.S.-based sports network, Bellamy rarely comments on NRL affairs. But during a segment discussing leadership pressure in modern sports, Bellamy pivoted suddenly — and emotionally — to address the struggles of his former club, and the man now in charge of it.

“Ricky, mate — if you’re hearing this, I’m saying it because I care: don’t lose the fabric of what we built back in the day. The Raiders were never about politics or PR spin — they were about grit, loyalty, and heart. Get back to that.”

A Public Wake-Up Call?

The comments follow growing speculation that the Canberra Raiders are facing deep internal issues, with recent reports hinting at player unrest, boardroom interference, and a disconnect between coaching staff and team performance. The team has had a rocky 2025 season, falling out of finals contention and drawing criticism from both fans and former players.

While Bellamy made it clear he respects Stuart’s long-standing contribution to the Raiders — both as a former premiership-winning player and longtime coach — he didn’t hold back from offering a public course correction.

“You’re one of the toughest blokes I’ve ever coached against, but toughness isn’t just yelling on the sideline. It’s listening when it counts, evolving when it matters. I know you still have that in you.”

Long History, High Stakes

Craig Bellamy and Ricky Stuart share one of rugby league’s longest-standing professional relationships. Both came through the Raiders system during the club’s golden era in the late ’80s and early ’90s, before carving out highly respected coaching careers in the NRL.

Their mutual respect is well-documented, which makes Bellamy’s public call-out all the more powerful — and personal.

Fan and Media Reaction

The reaction was immediate and explosive. Social media platforms lit up with hashtags like #BellamyBlast, #RickyWakeUp, and #RaidersReckoning trending in both Australia and parts of the U.S.

• NRL analyst James Hooper commented on X (formerly Twitter):
  “Craig Bellamy rarely speaks out — when he does, it’s thunder. This is as direct as it gets.”

• Canberra fan groups expressed mixed emotions — some praising Bellamy’s honesty, others defending Stuart’s legacy.

• A brief statement from the Raiders acknowledged the comments but downplayed tensions:
  “We value Craig Bellamy’s perspective and lifelong connection to this club. Ricky remains fully committed to leading the Raiders into a stronger future.”

What Comes Next?

Insiders say Bellamy may follow up on his comments in an upcoming ESPN feature on leadership in sport. Meanwhile, all eyes are now on Ricky Stuart and the Raiders’ next moves — both on and off the field.

With Bellamy’s words still echoing across the rugby world, one question remains: Will Ricky Stuart take this as criticism — or a challenge to rise once again?