In one of the most exciting moves of the 2025 NRL off-season, Daine Laurie is officially heading to the Nation’s Capital, signing a new multi-year deal with the Canberra Raiders reportedly worth $4.3 million. The electric fullback, known for his explosive speed, fearless playstyle, and attacking flair, has become one of the most sought-after talents in the game—and the Raiders have just landed a major coup.
Laurie’s signing marks a defining statement of intent from Canberra. After a mixed 2025 campaign marked by flashes of brilliance and bouts of inconsistency, the Raiders have now moved aggressively to strengthen their backline and inject more creativity into their attack. Laurie’s versatility—being able to play fullback, five-eighth, or even in the centres—makes him a game-changer for coach Ricky Stuart’s side.
At just 26 years old, Laurie is entering the prime of his career. His move to Canberra represents both a new challenge and a fresh start. After previous stints with the Penrith Panthers and Wests Tigers, Laurie rediscovered his best form in 2025, showcasing maturity, leadership, and a renewed hunger to reach his full potential. Those performances clearly caught the attention of Raiders recruitment staff, who see him as a player capable of helping the team return to premiership contention.
Canberra’s attacking structure will benefit immensely from Laurie’s inclusion. His ability to create something from nothing, his elusiveness under pressure, and his eye for a line break perfectly complement the Raiders’ hard-running forward pack and aggressive style. With players like Jamal Fogarty, Jack Wighton, and Hudson Young already providing stability and leadership, Laurie’s addition gives the Raiders that unpredictable spark they’ve been missing since the departure of key playmakers in recent years.
Fans in the Nation’s Capital are already buzzing. Social media erupted minutes after the news broke, with Raiders supporters celebrating the signing as one of the club’s biggest recruitment wins in years. Many believe Laurie’s arrival could signal a new era of confidence and attacking flair—something that has long been part of Canberra’s DNA but has been inconsistent in recent seasons.
For Laurie himself, this move is more than just about money—it’s about legacy. In his own words, “I’m ready to give my best football to Canberra. The club’s culture, the fans, and the opportunity to be part of something special made this an easy decision.” Those words will sit well with Raiders fans who value passion, commitment, and loyalty as much as skill.
The $4.3 million investment underscores how highly the Raiders view Laurie’s potential impact—not just as a player, but as a long-term piece of their identity. With a focus on youth development and attacking evolution, Laurie’s arrival is both a strategic and symbolic move.
As 2026 looms, the Raiders’ roster is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in the competition. With Daine Laurie in green, the future looks fast, fiery, and full of promise in the Nation’s Capital.
