Ricky Stuart declares he has ‘never been so confused’ in stunning 108-second press conference

Canberra coach Ricky Stuart has delivered a post-match sermon that last less than two minutes following the Raiders’ 30-22 loss to the Dolphins in the nation’s capital on Thursday.

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Stuart did not take questions from media who had waited patiently for well over an hour to hear from him following the Raiders’ seventh loss of the season.

The veteran coach began his press conference by pledging the Canberra club’s support for recently retired Rabbitoh Jai Arrow, who this week bravely revealed he was battling motor neurone disease.

He then thanked the Raiders’ fans for facing the chilly weather in ‘a tough time slot, Thursday night’, before praising his ‘very brave, courageous football team’ and declaring the Dolphins the better side on the night.

What came next was a veiled swipe at the way the match was officiated and Stuart may have had a point, with referee Todd Smith appearing to have forgotten his whistle at times.

Fans used to the high volume of penalties and set restarts that have punctuated the first half of 2026 saw a different game at GIO Stadium.

Smith failed to blow a single penalty until the 35th minute and finished the first half with just one penalty and six restarts. The second period saw six penalties blown and only three restarts.

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“The game has interpretations and rules and we’re in a position at the moment where we’re picking and choosing when we apply them and it’s a very frustrating situation for those who are involved as players and coaches,” Stuart said.

“In all the all the years I’ve been involved in the game as a coach, I’ve never been so confused.

“It’s disappointing to say the least, but I mean, just so confused at the moment, in regards to, I mean, you can’t have a rule and apply it one week and not the next week.

“It’s just, I’ve never been so confused, and it’s disappointing, because I love the game. Thank you.”

With that he was gone.

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