In a stunning development that has reverberated throughout the National Rugby League (NRL) community, Canberra Raiders head coach Ricky Stuart has made a bold and unprecedented announcement that has left supporters, players and rival clubs alike reeling. The long‑time Raiders mentor — a fixture in Canberra’s coaching box for over a decade — confirmed an unexpected strategic shift that will redefine the club’s direction ahead of the 2026 NRL season.
Stuart, one of the most influential figures in modern rugby league and the legendary architect behind the Raiders’ resurgence as 2025 Minor Premiers under his leadership, revealed that he will be relinquishing the full‑time head coaching role at the end of the current pre‑season. In a candid press conference held at GIO Stadium, Stuart spoke openly about why he feels now is the right time to step away from day‑to‑day coaching duties while still playing a significant role in the franchise’s future.
“It’s been an honour of a lifetime to lead this club with so much passion and pride,” Stuart said, flanked by senior players and club officials. “But in order for the Raiders to grow into a sustained premiership‑winning force long term, we need fresh leadership at the helm. I believe in evolution, and today I start that process.”
Stuart’s announcement, delivered with emotion, confirmed that he will transition into a Director of Football role — a newly created position within the Raiders’ hierarchy that will see him focus on long‑term strategy, recruitment and pathways development. This move comes after a remarkable 2025 season in which Canberra dominated the regular season with 19 wins and just five losses to claim the club’s first Minor Premiership since 1990, before bowing out in heartbreaking finals defeats.
The reaction has been immediate and intense. Fans inside GIO Stadium expressed shock, with many struggling to reconcile the idea of Stuart no longer on the sideline as head coach. With 11 years of service at the club, Stuart has been synonymous with the Raiders’ identity — shaping young talent, nurturing leadership within the squad and masterminding one of the most compelling stories of the NRL’s recent era.
Club CEO Don Furner Jr. praised Stuart’s contribution, stating: “Ricky has poured heart and soul into this club. His vision and commitment have set the stage for the next chapter of Raiders football, and we are confident this new structure will help propel us forward.”
Stuart’s announcement also sent shockwaves around the NRL landscape, with pundits speculating on his successor and the impact this decision might have on Canberra’s 2026 campaign. Rumours are already circulating about internal candidates being considered, with experienced assistants and former Raiders greats mentioned as potential contenders to lead the team into the next era.
The timing of the announcement — just weeks before the start of the new season — adds another layer of drama. Canberra enters 2026 with exciting young talent, including promising recruits poised to make an impact, and against a backdrop of high expectations following last year’s standout campaign. Analysts now believe the Raiders’ leadership transition could influence everything from recruitment strategies to on‑field tactics.
As the green machine prepares for the season ahead, the NRL community will be watching closely to see if Stuart’s bold gambit pays off, and whether the Raiders can convert stability off the field into success on it.
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