ESPN CONFIRMED: Canberra Raiders Approve $114.8 Million GIO Stadium Renovation Project Ahead of the 2025 NRL Season…

In a major announcement that has electrified rugby league fans across Australia, ESPN has confirmed that the Canberra Raiders have officially approved a $114.8 million renovation project for GIO Stadium, marking one of the most ambitious upgrades in the club’s history. This move comes as part of the Raiders’ broader vision to modernize their facilities, enhance fan experience, and solidify their place among the premier clubs in the National Rugby League (NRL).

The $114.8 million redevelopment plan will completely transform GIO Stadium — a venue that has stood as a proud symbol of Canberra’s sporting culture for decades. According to team officials and project planners, the upgrades will include state-of-the-art seating, premium hospitality suites, modernized locker rooms, advanced lighting systems, and improved accessibility features to make the stadium more inclusive for fans of all ages and abilities.

In addition, the new design promises to enhance the matchday atmosphere with a larger video scoreboard, expanded concourse areas, improved acoustics, and upgraded food and beverage zones, ensuring every visitor enjoys a world-class entertainment experience.

Canberra Raiders CEO Don Furner expressed immense pride in the club’s commitment to improving both player and fan experiences. “This is a huge step forward for our organization,” Furner said in a statement. “GIO Stadium has hosted countless unforgettable moments in Raiders history, and with this redevelopment, we’re ensuring that future generations of fans can experience those same moments in an environment that meets the highest modern standards.”

The decision to proceed with the project comes after months of discussions between the Raiders, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government, and key investors. Funding for the $114.8 million project will reportedly be shared between public and private partners, underscoring the importance of the venue not only to the Raiders but also to the broader Canberra community.

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr praised the move, highlighting the economic and cultural benefits the renovation will bring. “This investment isn’t just about sport — it’s about the city,” Barr stated. “The GIO Stadium redevelopment will create jobs, boost tourism, and reinforce Canberra’s reputation as a destination for world-class events.”

Construction is expected to begin shortly after the conclusion of the 2024 NRL season, with the project scheduled for completion before the start of the 2025 campaign. The Raiders are reportedly working closely with contractors to ensure minimal disruption to their home fixtures during the transition.

Fans have already taken to social media to express excitement, with many hailing the investment as a long-overdue upgrade that reflects the Raiders’ growing ambition both on and off the field.

As the Raiders prepare for the upcoming 2025 NRL season, this announcement serves as a powerful statement of intent. The team is not only focused on chasing championships but also on building a legacy — one that will stand the test of time at a rejuvenated GIO Stadium, the proud home of the Green Machine.

— Reported by ESPN Sports Australia, November 2025