BREAKING NEWS: It is Done Canberra Raiders Legend Laurie Daley Returns as Director of Football In a monumental, Canberra Raiders Chairman Dennis Richardson AC and his family has officially declared that Laurie Daley the legendary former centre/five-eighth and long-time face of the franchise, will return to the organization in 2025 as a Director of Football v..…view more

CANBERRA – In a monumental move that’s sent shockwaves across the NRL world, the Canberra Raiders have pulled off the unthinkable – bringing home one of their greatest ever players. Legendary five-eighth and club icon Laurie Daley will return to the Green Machine in 2025, this time not on the field, but in the boardroom, as the club’s new Director of Football.

The announcement was made this morning at Raiders HQ in Bruce, where club chairman Dennis Richardson AC, flanked by his family and senior board members, confirmed the long-rumoured return of Daley. The news was greeted with rapturous applause from staff, players, and a throng of die-hard fans gathered outside the facility.

“It is done. Laurie is coming home,” Richardson said solemnly. “He bleeds green. He always has. And now, as we look to a new era for this club, there is no one better suited to lead us forward.”

Daley, 56, is widely regarded as one of the finest players to have worn the Raiders jersey. From his debut in 1987 to his retirement in 2000, he made 244 appearances for Canberra, won three premierships (1989, 1990, 1994), and represented New South Wales and Australia with distinction.

After hanging up the boots, Daley transitioned seamlessly into media and coaching, including a notable stint as head coach of the NSW Blues from 2013 to 2017. His appointment as Director of Football marks a full-circle moment in a career defined by loyalty, leadership, and legacy.

In an emotional address, Daley spoke of his passion for the club and his vision for the future:

“This club gave me everything. It shaped my life, my values, and my career. To be invited back in this capacity is an honour I don’t take lightly. My job now is to help build a winning culture – not just for today, but for generations to come.”

As Director of Football, Daley will oversee all football operations, from recruitment and player development to high-performance strategy and coaching pathways. His influence is expected to be immediate, particularly with the club’s next generation of rising stars.

Club CEO Don Furner hailed the decision as a “game-changer,” adding that Daley’s presence would inject “unmatched credibility, leadership, and rugby league IQ” into the Raiders’ football department.

Social media has since exploded with tributes and excitement from fans, former players, and even rival clubs.

“Massive move. One of the best to ever do it back where he belongs,” tweeted former Blues teammate Brad Fittler.

The Raiders, who narrowly missed the finals in 2025, will be hoping that Daley’s return signals the dawn of a new era. With a talented young roster, a passionate supporter base, and now a club legend at the helm of football operations, the Green Machine looks poised to fire once again.