CANBERRA, ACT — In a shocking development that has rocked the rugby league world, Canberra Raiders head coach Ricky Stuart has officially stepped down from his position following what the club described as a “significant administrative and procedural error” that has placed the organization under intense scrutiny.
The news was first reported by ESPN Australia late Friday afternoon and has since been confirmed by club officials in a hastily arranged press conference at GIO Stadium. The announcement ends Stuart’s long and passionate tenure as one of the most influential figures in Raiders history — a reign marked by fiery leadership, loyalty to the club, and an unwavering connection to the Canberra community.
Club CEO Don Furner read from a prepared statement, confirming that Stuart tendered his resignation earlier in the day after internal discussions regarding a major error linked to recent player management decisions.
“This has been an incredibly difficult 24 hours for everyone involved,” Furner said solemnly. “Ricky has taken full responsibility for a procedural issue that has had a significant impact on the club. Out of respect for the Raiders, our players, and our supporters, he has chosen to step aside effective immediately.”
While the specific details of the “significant error” have not yet been fully disclosed, multiple sources close to the organization suggest it relates to contract compliance and player eligibility matters that came to light during a routine NRL audit earlier this week.
The Raiders and the National Rugby League (NRL) are reportedly cooperating to resolve the issue. The NRL issued a brief statement Friday evening confirming they were “aware of the situation and in ongoing communication with the Canberra Raiders to ensure all protocols are properly addressed.”
Stuart, 57, appeared visibly emotional as he addressed the media following Furner’s remarks. “I’ve always put this club first,” Stuart said. “I made a mistake — a serious one — and as a leader, I have to own it. I never want to be the reason this great club faces unnecessary turmoil. The right thing to do is step aside and let the Raiders move forward.”
Stuart’s resignation brings an abrupt end to a coaching tenure that began in 2014, making him one of the longest-serving coaches in Raiders history. Under his leadership, Canberra made multiple finals appearances, including a Grand Final berth in 2019, where they fell narrowly to the Sydney Roosters.
Known for his passion, honesty, and fiery sideline demeanor, Stuart has long been a polarizing yet respected figure in Australian rugby league. A Canberra native and former Raiders halfback himself, he helped lead the club to three premierships as a player in the late 1980s and early 1990s before transitioning into a decorated coaching career.
In a show of support, several current and former Raiders players took to social media within minutes of the announcement. Star forward Joseph Tapine posted, “Coach Stick built us into brothers. No one cares more about this team. Respect forever.”
Former Raider and NRL legend Mal Meninga also weighed in on Fox League, saying, “Ricky bleeds green. He’s always been about accountability, and that’s exactly what he’s showing here. He’s walking away with integrity.”
The Raiders have announced that Assistant Coach Brett White will assume interim head coaching duties while the club begins its search for a permanent replacement.
Despite the turmoil, Furner emphasized that the organization remains unified. “We’ll get through this,” he said. “The Canberra Raiders are bigger than any one person, and Ricky’s legacy will always be part of our DNA.”
As for Stuart, he left the press room quietly, stopping briefly to shake hands with reporters before disappearing down the tunnel that leads to the Raiders’ locker room — the same tunnel he walked through countless times as both a player and coach.
“This club has been my life,” Stuart said softly as he departed. “It always will be. I just hope the fans know how much I love them.”
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