‘I appreciate you all’: Josh Addo-Carr posts emotional message after he was sacked by Bulldogs

Josh Addo-Carr says he’s “proud” to have played a role in Canterbury’s turnaround over the past couple of seasons and has wished the club “nothing but success” after he had his contract terminated on Thursday night.

The NRL club released a statement confirming the fan favourite had been let go following an incident in September when he tested positive to cocaine after a roadside drug test where his story to the club didn’t match up to what the police had alleged.

Addo-Carr remains adamant he doesn’t know how the drug got in his system, with the winger standing himself down for the club’s first finals match in eight years that they lost to Manly.

“Josh has been a significant part of our club over the past three seasons. During this time, he has provided many memorable moments for our members and fans,” the club statement read.

“We understand Josh’s popularity with our passionate supporter base, and we share their disappointment that his time with the club has ended this way.

“However, this season has demonstrated the importance of building a culture based on clear standards and values.

“While the NRL Integrity Unit has completed its investigation and imposed a four-match suspension, the club views the combination of the failed drug test and subsequent lack of transparency as serious breaches of Josh’s contractual obligations and our club’s standards.”

Addo-Carr spent three seasons with the Bulldogs following a glittering career in Melbourne, with the Dragons and Eels the leading contenders to sign him for 2025 and beyond.

“To all the Bulldogs fans and family, thank you for a memorable 3 years. The love and support you’ve shown me since I arrived at Belmore has always been amazing and the memories will last forever. I appreciate you all,” he posted on Instagram.

“I’d also like to thank my teammates and coaching staff. We built a brotherhood that will last forever and will miss our time together on and off the field.

“I came to the Bulldogs in 2022, a time when the club was struggling and at a low point. I wanted to help bring back the club to the powerhouse it once was and most importantly, I wanted to help build a winning culture. In 3 years, I’m proud to be a part of that turnaround.

“Unfortunately, circumstances won’t allow me to be at the Bulldogs any longer but I wish the club, my teammates and most importantly the fans nothing but success.”

Bulldogs skipper Stephen Crichton replied to the post “Love my brother”, while Josh Curran, Jacob Kiraz and other NRL players also wrote messages of support.