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NRL 2026: Ricky Stuart unloads on Hudson Young’s contract saga, driven by money, Raiders, could Young leave early, news, reaction

A miffed Ricky Stuart says he finds the Hudson Young contract saga “difficult” believing the star back rower’s decision on his future is being “absolutely” driven by money.

FOX Sports Australia

Published: Thursday, 5 November 2026 at 8:58 PM

Key Things to Know

Ricky Stuart stated Hudson Young's contract decision is driven by money after rejecting Canberra's record offer.
Canberra offered Young $1.1 million over four seasons before withdrawing further negotiations to protect the club.
The PNG Chiefs offered Young a tax-free contract worth $900,000 per year for their permanent entry.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Canberra Raiders head coach Ricky Stuart has spoken out regarding Hudson Young's impending departure, stating that the back-rower's decision is purely driven by money. Stuart confirmed that Canberra made a record, highly generous contract offer of $1.1 million over four seasons to retain Young, but the club could not exceed that proposal and must now move forward after the offer was rejected.

Young has reportedly received a tax-free offer of $900,000 per season from the PNG Chiefs ahead of their 2028 NRL entry. However, ARLC Chairman Peter V'landys confirmed that the NRL's salary cap auditor has valued Young at $1 million, meaning the Chiefs cannot register him on their cap below market value despite Canberra withdrawing their bid.

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